In a welcome move, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has announced on Sunday that the kingdom has decided to accept foreign pilgrims, who want to perform Umrah in the Grand Mosque of Makkah under the updated coronavirus-related restrictions. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-confirms-omicron-infections-as-us-fauci-warns-two-weeks-needed-to-study-new-strain-432636" hreflang="en">Canada confirms 'Omicron' infections as US' Fauci warns two weeks needed to study new strain</a>

In a statement on Twitter, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has shared the requirements of vaccination for Umrah pilgrims, who will be "coming from abroad". It has also shared the list of the jabs approved by the Saudi Arabia. &nbsp;

As per the new directive, the pilgrims, who are travelling to Saudi Arabia on Umrah visa and have been inoculated with any vaccine approved by the kingdom will get to perform Umrah immediately.&nbsp;They will not have to go into quarantine upon arrival. &nbsp;

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The pilgrims, who are travelling on Umrah visas and have been inoculated with any of the vaccines approved by the World Health Organisation, will have to go undergo quarantine for three days on the arrival. &nbsp;

At the end of the quarantine, the pilgrims would have to also submit a negative report of the PCR test, which should have been taken 48 hours after the arrival. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-in-race-against-time-to-tackle-omicron-covid-variant-says-eu-chief-432631" hreflang="en">World in 'race against time' to tackle Omicron Covid variant, says EU chief</a>

The list says that the pilgrims must have got two shots of Oxford AstraZeneca, Comirnaty, Pfizer/BioNtech, SK Bioscience, Vaxzevria, Covishield, Moderna or Spikevax or one dose of Johnson &amp; Johnson. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a welcome move, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has announced on Sunday that the kingdom has decided to accept foreign pilgrims, who want to perform Umrah in the Grand Mosque of Makkah under the updated coronavirus-related restrictions.

In a welcome move, Ministry of Hajj and Umrah of Saudi Arabia has announced on Sunday that the kingdom has decided to accept foreign pilgrims, who want to perform Umrah in the Grand Mosque of Makkah under the updated coronavirus-related restrictions. Also Read: Canada confirms 'Omicron' infections as US' Fauci warns two weeks needed to study new strain In a statement on Twitter, the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has shared the requirements of vaccination for Umrah pilgrims, who will be "coming from abroad". It has also shared the list of the jabs approved by the Saudi Arabia. As per the new directive, the pilgrims, who are travelling to Saudi Arabia on Umrah visa and have been inoculated with any vaccine approved by the kingdom will get to perform Umrah immediately. They will not have to go into quarantine upon arrival. The Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has updated its Vaccination Requirements for Umrah Pilgrims coming from abroad pic.twitter.com/8cIqJJxwho — Haramain Sharifain (@hsharifain) November 28, 2021 × The pilgrims, who are travelling on Umrah visas and have been inoculated with any of the vaccines approved by the World Health Organisation, will have to go undergo quarantine for three days on the arrival. At the end of the quarantine, the pilgrims would have to also submit a negative report of the PCR test, which should have been taken 48 hours after the arrival. Also Read: World in 'race against time' to tackle Omicron Covid variant, says EU chief The list says that the pilgrims must have got two shots of Oxford AstraZeneca, Comirnaty, Pfizer/BioNtech, SK Bioscience, Vaxzevria, Covishield, Moderna or Spikevax or one dose of Johnson & Johnson. (With inputs from agencies)

Finally, inoculated foreign pilgrims can perform Umrah in Saudi Arabia  

In what can be called an attack on Taliban's leaders, 15 civilians have been reportedly killed in an explosion outside Eidgah mosque in Chaman area of Kabul on Sunday. The Taliban spokesman confirmed the incident. &nbsp;

Some civilians had gathered at the mosque in Afghan capital to offer their condolences over the death of Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid’s mother Fateha during a memorial service.

The victims may include Taliban guards, who were manning the area.

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Ambulances could be heard arriving at the spot. Three people have also been arrested near the blast site, said unconfirmed reports. &nbsp;

The explosion was followed by gunfire, said witnesses at the spot. No one has immediately claimed the responsibility for the attack. &nbsp;

Even after the Taliban’s takeover of the war-torn country, the spate of blasts has not stopped. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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Earlier, the Taliban used to target Afghanistan government officials in targeted killings. Now, it seems the same is being done by&nbsp;rival insurgents, such as Islamic State group, against the new rulers of the country.

There is a possibility of escalation of conflict between the two groups. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, gunmen shot and killed two Taliban fighters and two civilians in the eastern city of Jalalabad on Saturday, a Taliban official said.

Two other civilians were wounded in the attack, said Mohammad Hanif, a cultural official for the city's surrounding province, Nangarhar.

In another incident, blasts followed by gunfire were reported in Kabul’s Khair Khana area.&nbsp;IS-K militants reportedly blew themselves up in a house where they were being surrounded by Taliban men.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called an attack on Taliban's leaders, 15 civilians have been reportedly killed in an explosion outside Eidgah mosque in Chaman area of Kabul on Sunday.

In what can be called an attack on Taliban's leaders, 15 civilians have been reportedly killed in an explosion outside Eidgah mosque in Chaman area of Kabul on Sunday. The Taliban spokesman confirmed the incident. Some civilians had gathered at the mosque in Afghan capital to offer their condolences over the death of Taliban spokesman Zabiullah Mujahid’s mother Fateha during a memorial service. The victims may include Taliban guards, who were manning the area. Also Read: Pak PM Imran calls President Rahmon amid tensions between Tajikistan & Taliban Ambulances could be heard arriving at the spot. Three people have also been arrested near the blast site, said unconfirmed reports. The explosion was followed by gunfire, said witnesses at the spot. No one has immediately claimed the responsibility for the attack. Even after the Taliban’s takeover of the war-torn country, the spate of blasts has not stopped. Also Read: Nearly 1,000 Taliban militants rally in Kabul to show power and unity Earlier, the Taliban used to target Afghanistan government officials in targeted killings. Now, it seems the same is being done by rival insurgents, such as Islamic State group, against the new rulers of the country. There is a possibility of escalation of conflict between the two groups. Meanwhile, gunmen shot and killed two Taliban fighters and two civilians in the eastern city of Jalalabad on Saturday, a Taliban official said. Two other civilians were wounded in the attack, said Mohammad Hanif, a cultural official for the city's surrounding province, Nangarhar. In another incident, blasts followed by gunfire were reported in Kabul’s Khair Khana area. IS-K militants reportedly blew themselves up in a house where they were being surrounded by Taliban men. (With inputs from agencies)

Fifteen civilians killed in blast at Eidgah mosque entrance in Kabul

If a viral message is to be believed, a woman was found to be breastfeeding a cat onboard a flight as horrified passengers and cabin crew made several attempts to stop the questionable activity, revealed messages, which appear to be from the pilot. &nbsp;

Despite repeated pleas from the cabin crew, the woman, who had gone a little overboard in taking care of the cat, continued. &nbsp;

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The activity put several passengers in an uneasy situation. The incident happened on a Delta Air flight DL1360 to Atlanta. &nbsp;&nbsp;

After the woman was not ready to put her pet back in its carrier, the pilot informed Delta's Redcoat ground team to reprimand the customer after the flight gets landed. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outrage-over-plan-to-cull-intelligent-gorillas-due-to-overcrowding-in-zoos-432724" hreflang="en">Outrage over plan to cull intelligent gorillas due to overcrowding in zoos &nbsp;</a>

"Req Redcoat meet AC Pax (passenger) in (seat) 13A is breastfeeding a cat and will not put cat back in its carrier when FA (flight attendant) requested," read an Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System message, which was reportedly from the flight's crew. &nbsp;

The American airline says it has experienced around 84% surge in incidents relating to emotional support animals in last few years. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

If a viral message is to be believed, a woman was found to be breastfeeding a cat onboard a flight as horrified passengers and cabin crew made several attempts to stop the questionable activity, revealed messages, which appear to be from the pilot.

If a viral message is to be believed, a woman was found to be breastfeeding a cat onboard a flight as horrified passengers and cabin crew made several attempts to stop the questionable activity, revealed messages, which appear to be from the pilot. Despite repeated pleas from the cabin crew, the woman, who had gone a little overboard in taking care of the cat, continued. Also Read: ‘Ultra-rare deep-sea’ footballfish washes ashore California beach The activity put several passengers in an uneasy situation. The incident happened on a Delta Air flight DL1360 to Atlanta. After the woman was not ready to put her pet back in its carrier, the pilot informed Delta's Redcoat ground team to reprimand the customer after the flight gets landed. Also Read: Outrage over plan to cull intelligent gorillas due to overcrowding in zoos "Req Redcoat meet AC Pax (passenger) in (seat) 13A is breastfeeding a cat and will not put cat back in its carrier when FA (flight attendant) requested," read an Aircraft Communications Addressing and Reporting System message, which was reportedly from the flight's crew. The American airline says it has experienced around 84% surge in incidents relating to emotional support animals in last few years. (With inputs from agencies)

Woman breastfeeds cat onboard flight as passengers, cabin crew watch in horror  

Australia's cops begin to take charge as Solomon unrest continues

Outrage seems to be growing as the Association of Zoos and Aquaria (Eaza) has been considering a cull of intelligent&nbsp;gorillas, citing the high number of the animals in zoos across Europe.&nbsp;

Campaigners, who say they should be returned to the wild, have slammed this plan to solve zoo overcrowding. &nbsp; &nbsp;

Across its 69 locations, Eaza seems to be responsible for 463 great apes. The association says it is looking for solutions to reduce the number of critically-endangered western lowland gorillas as there is overpopulation in its facilities. &nbsp;

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A western lowland gorilla logged an IQ score between 70 and 90, which isn't far off the 85 to 115 usually logged by humans. &nbsp;

Apart from culling, it is also considering castrating and housing adult males in isolation. These methods are currently in use. &nbsp;

According to a gorilla action plan, which is being told to shareholders, culling is the "most appropriate tool" in biological terms. &nbsp;

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“The main downside of this option is that it is controversial in many countries and in some illegal, in specific circumstances. Any discussion on culling can quickly become an emotional one because it is easy to empathise with gorillas. This carries a high risk that an emotional response by the public and/or zoo staff and keepers, catalysed by social media, inflicts damage to zoos and aquariums,” the document said. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Outrage seems to be growing as the Association of Zoos and Aquaria (Eaza) has been considering a cull of intelligent gorillas, citing the high number of the animals in zoos across Europe.

Outrage seems to be growing as the Association of Zoos and Aquaria (Eaza) has been considering a cull of intelligent gorillas, citing the high number of the animals in zoos across Europe. Campaigners, who say they should be returned to the wild, have slammed this plan to solve zoo overcrowding. Across its 69 locations, Eaza seems to be responsible for 463 great apes. The association says it is looking for solutions to reduce the number of critically-endangered western lowland gorillas as there is overpopulation in its facilities. Also Read: Global warming affecting one of the most monogamous birds, leading to 'break-ups' A western lowland gorilla logged an IQ score between 70 and 90, which isn't far off the 85 to 115 usually logged by humans. Apart from culling, it is also considering castrating and housing adult males in isolation. These methods are currently in use. According to a gorilla action plan, which is being told to shareholders, culling is the "most appropriate tool" in biological terms. Also Read: ‘Ultra-rare deep-sea’ footballfish washes ashore California beach “The main downside of this option is that it is controversial in many countries and in some illegal, in specific circumstances. Any discussion on culling can quickly become an emotional one because it is easy to empathise with gorillas. This carries a high risk that an emotional response by the public and/or zoo staff and keepers, catalysed by social media, inflicts damage to zoos and aquariums,” the document said. (With inputs from agencies)

Outrage over plan to cull intelligent gorillas due to overcrowding in zoos  

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric.

But outside, the winds were howling and the snow was swirling. The pubgoers knew the forecast was dire, but not so much that piles of snow as high as 3 feet would block the pub’s exits, said Nicola Townsend, the inn’s general manager.

After the tribute band, Noasis, finished its set, local authorities said it was not safe to drive home, Townsend said Sunday night.

So the patrons, the band members and seven inn employees stayed the night.

And then another.

And Sunday night, they were preparing to stay another.

Though the roads were not safe to travel, a group of off-roaders took a couple of parents home to their young children, Townsend said. A local mountain rescue group also helped evacuate a man who needed medical treatment for an “ongoing condition.”

That has left 61 people, mostly strangers, stranded at the pub. To pass the time, they took pub quizzes, watched movies like “Grease” and “Mamma Mia!” and sang karaoke, Townsend said.

“Lots of Oasis at the moment,” she said, adding that the pubgoers have started calling the tribute band “Snowasis.”

Band members had to cancel a performance Saturday night because they were snowed in. “We have no way of making it to our gig,” the band said on Facebook.

Those at the pub have enjoyed a few beers but no one is “getting loud and drunk,” Townsend said, because they want to be “respectful of each other.”

Some of those who were stranded already had rooms at the inn, while others had parked their motor homes outside. The rest crammed into the lounge, where they slept on sofas or on the floor. Employees supplied them with mattresses, blankets and pillows and kept the fireplaces roaring.

They hope they can leave on Monday afternoon, but the problem, Townsend said, is that a downed power line has blocked the road leading out of the remote pub. The pub is in Richmond, a town in North Yorkshire, which is more than 200 miles northwest of London.

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="439bc52b-28f8-4fb3-8e9b-1cea122ccedf" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Pub2.jpg" />

Outside the pub, the United Kingdom has been reeling from the storm, which has been blamed for the deaths of at least three people who died in separate episodes Friday.

A man died in Cumbria, England, after a tree hit him, police there said, while the other two — a man in Northern Ireland and a man in Aberdeenshire, Scotland — were struck by falling trees in their cars, authorities said.

The storm has paralyzed swaths of Britain’s power grid and left thousands without power. The Met Office, Britain’s national weather service, has issued several warnings since Friday about high winds and snow from the storm, which it has named Storm Arwen.

The weather has shown no signs of letting up for the pub patrons. A video on social media showed snow blanketing the doorway and the cars parked outside, though emergency workers looked to be clearing a path out of the pub.

The episode has drawn attention from around the world, and the inn has kept people updated on Facebook. In a post on Sunday night, it jokingly called the pubgoers “inmates” and said that “some are at breaking point.”

But Townsend said that, for the most part, “everybody seems to be really quite happy.”

“The best way I can describe it is it’s like being at a party with all your friends,” she said, adding that the inn would not run out of food because it stocks up for the winter.

Those gathered have shared roast dinners, a couple of beers and even a buffet (on the house) with “lots of different picky bits,” she said. Patrons have helped wash dishes and taken up a collection for the staff.

“We will ALWAYS remember this group of amazing people who came together, and hopefully, in challenging circumstances, enjoyed what we all think was a life-changing experience,” another Facebook post said.

This is not the first time people have been snowed in at the inn. Townsend said this also happened on New Year’s Day in 2010. Waitrose &amp;amp; Partners, a U.K. grocery chain, filmed a commercial at the inn in 2017 featuring snowbound pubgoers enjoying a meal together.

The group stuck in the pub may have started Friday as strangers, but they will leave as friends, Townsend said, adding, “We’ve even talked about having a reunion next year.”

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric.

Up on a hill in Yorkshire, England, a crowd filled a pub on Friday to listen to an Oasis tribute band. Inside the pub, the Tan Hill Inn, the beers were cold, the fires were warming and the musicians were electric. But outside, the winds were howling and the snow was swirling. The pubgoers knew the forecast was dire, but not so much that piles of snow as high as 3 feet would block the pub’s exits, said Nicola Townsend, the inn’s general manager. After the tribute band, Noasis, finished its set, local authorities said it was not safe to drive home, Townsend said Sunday night. So the patrons, the band members and seven inn employees stayed the night. And then another. And Sunday night, they were preparing to stay another. Though the roads were not safe to travel, a group of off-roaders took a couple of parents home to their young children, Townsend said. A local mountain rescue group also helped evacuate a man who needed medical treatment for an “ongoing condition.” That has left 61 people, mostly strangers, stranded at the pub. To pass the time, they took pub quizzes, watched movies like “Grease” and “Mamma Mia!” and sang karaoke, Townsend said. “Lots of Oasis at the moment,” she said, adding that the pubgoers have started calling the tribute band “Snowasis.” Band members had to cancel a performance Saturday night because they were snowed in. “We have no way of making it to our gig,” the band said on Facebook. Those at the pub have enjoyed a few beers but no one is “getting loud and drunk,” Townsend said, because they want to be “respectful of each other.” Some of those who were stranded already had rooms at the inn, while others had parked their motor homes outside. The rest crammed into the lounge, where they slept on sofas or on the floor. Employees supplied them with mattresses, blankets and pillows and kept the fireplaces roaring. They hope they can leave on Monday afternoon, but the problem, Townsend said, is that a downed power line has blocked the road leading out of the remote pub. The pub is in Richmond, a town in North Yorkshire, which is more than 200 miles northwest of London. Outside the pub, the United Kingdom has been reeling from the storm, which has been blamed for the deaths of at least three people who died in separate episodes Friday. A man died in Cumbria, England, after a tree hit him, police there said, while the other two — a man in Northern Ireland and a man in Aberdeenshire, Scotland — were struck by falling trees in their cars, authorities said. The storm has paralyzed swaths of Britain’s power grid and left thousands without power. The Met Office, Britain’s national weather service, has issued several warnings since Friday about high winds and snow from the storm, which it has named Storm Arwen. The weather has shown no signs of letting up for the pub patrons. A video on social media showed snow blanketing the doorway and the cars parked outside, though emergency workers looked to be clearing a path out of the pub. The episode has drawn attention from around the world, and the inn has kept people updated on Facebook. In a post on Sunday night, it jokingly called the pubgoers “inmates” and said that “some are at breaking point.” But Townsend said that, for the most part, “everybody seems to be really quite happy.” “The best way I can describe it is it’s like being at a party with all your friends,” she said, adding that the inn would not run out of food because it stocks up for the winter. Those gathered have shared roast dinners, a couple of beers and even a buffet (on the house) with “lots of different picky bits,” she said. Patrons have helped wash dishes and taken up a collection for the staff. “We will ALWAYS remember this group of amazing people who came together, and hopefully, in challenging circumstances, enjoyed what we all think was a life-changing experience,” another Facebook post said. This is not the first time people have been snowed in at the inn. Townsend said this also happened on New Year’s Day in 2010. Waitrose &amp; Partners, a U.K. grocery chain, filmed a commercial at the inn in 2017 featuring snowbound pubgoers enjoying a meal together. The group stuck in the pub may have started Friday as strangers, but they will leave as friends, Townsend said, adding, “We’ve even talked about having a reunion next year.”

Snowstorm leaves 61 stranded in remote UK pub

In what can be called a ray of hope, a blood test, which uses RNA markers, seems to be offering help in identifying the issue among people, who have mood disorders, such as depression. It could be a breakthrough in the diagnosis of mental health conditions. &nbsp;

In April, a team of the Indiana University School of Medicine in the US launched the blood test. It seems to have claimed it to be psychiatry’s first-ever biological answer to diagnose a mood disorder. &nbsp;

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Dr Alexander Niculescu, a psychiatrist and geneticist, who led the research, said, “Our study shows that it is possible to have a blood test for depression and bipolar disorder, that have clinical utility, can distinguish between the two, and match people to the right medications.” &nbsp; &nbsp;

“This avoids years of trials and error, hospitalisations and side-effects,” added Niculescu.

The study seems to have delved into the biological basis of mood disorders. It has developed a tool to distinguish which type of mood disorder a person has, depression or bipolar disorder. &nbsp;&nbsp;

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To develop the test, Niculescu’s team drew on its 15 years of research into how psychiatry relates to blood gene expression biomarkers, measurable indicators of a biological state in the form of RNA, DNA, proteins or other molecules. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The blood tests, which have been developed by Dr Niculescu and his team, are now available as CLIA tests for physicians to order, through a company set up by Niculescu and others in the field. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a ray of hope, a blood test, which uses RNA markers, seems to be offering help in identifying the issue among people, who have mood disorders, such as depression.

In what can be called a ray of hope, a blood test, which uses RNA markers, seems to be offering help in identifying the issue among people, who have mood disorders, such as depression. It could be a breakthrough in the diagnosis of mental health conditions. In April, a team of the Indiana University School of Medicine in the US launched the blood test. It seems to have claimed it to be psychiatry’s first-ever biological answer to diagnose a mood disorder. Also Read | COVID-19: Omicron has high number of mutations compared to Delta, shows first image Dr Alexander Niculescu, a psychiatrist and geneticist, who led the research, said, “Our study shows that it is possible to have a blood test for depression and bipolar disorder, that have clinical utility, can distinguish between the two, and match people to the right medications.” “This avoids years of trials and error, hospitalisations and side-effects,” added Niculescu. The study seems to have delved into the biological basis of mood disorders. It has developed a tool to distinguish which type of mood disorder a person has, depression or bipolar disorder. Also Read: Watch | This super jelly can survive being run over by a car To develop the test, Niculescu’s team drew on its 15 years of research into how psychiatry relates to blood gene expression biomarkers, measurable indicators of a biological state in the form of RNA, DNA, proteins or other molecules. The blood tests, which have been developed by Dr Niculescu and his team, are now available as CLIA tests for physicians to order, through a company set up by Niculescu and others in the field. (With inputs from agencies)

Ray of hope? Blood test looks to identify disorder in people suffering with mental health issues

In a major embarrassment for the powerful army of Pakistan, country’s chief justice Gulzar Ahmed said colonels and majors are acting like kings. &nbsp;

The chief justice said, "What the colonels and majors desire, happens," while questioning the defence secretary in Supreme Court on Friday as it was found that the military was using "strategic and defence" land for commercial activities like renting out for wedding parties and cinemas. &nbsp;

Headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Qazi Mohammad Amin Ahmed and Justice Ijazul Ahsan, the three-judge bench heard the issue of lands of the military being used for commercial purposes at the Karachi registry of the Supreme Court. &nbsp;

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The Chief Justice grilled the defence secretary, retired Lt Gen Mohammad Hilal Hussain, reported Dawn newspaper.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The CJP asked whether structures, such as "cinemas and wedding halls", were built for defence purposes. &nbsp;

"This land was given to you for strategic and defence (purposes and yet) you have started commercial activities on it. Were wedding halls, cinemas and housing societies built for defence purposes?" the chief justice asked. &nbsp;

All Askari Housing Projects, which are called as Army Housing Scheme Defence, were built on cantonment lands, remarked CJP. &nbsp;

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"We have decided that this will not happen again," the defence secretary said. He added that the construction of housing societies and military land’s commercial use would be checked and stopped. &nbsp;

Justice Amin asked defence secretary to provide a written explanation on how would that be made possible. &nbsp;&nbsp;

"Go and tell all the chiefs (of the armed forces) that the land meant for defence purposes will not be used for commercial objectives. Go to all the military cantonments and tell them the land will be used only for strategic purposes," CJP Ahmed ordered the defence secretary. &nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In a major embarrassment for the powerful army of Pakistan, country’s chief justice Gulzar Ahmed said colonels and majors are acting like kings. The chief justice said, "What the colonels and majors desire, happens," while questioning the defence secretary in Supreme Court on Friday as it was found that the military was using "strategic and defence" land for commercial activities like renting out for wedding parties and cinemas.

In a major embarrassment for the powerful army of Pakistan, country’s chief justice Gulzar Ahmed said colonels and majors are acting like kings. The chief justice said, "What the colonels and majors desire, happens," while questioning the defence secretary in Supreme Court on Friday as it was found that the military was using "strategic and defence" land for commercial activities like renting out for wedding parties and cinemas. Headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Gulzar Ahmed and comprising Justice Qazi Mohammad Amin Ahmed and Justice Ijazul Ahsan, the three-judge bench heard the issue of lands of the military being used for commercial purposes at the Karachi registry of the Supreme Court. Also Read: Pak may give citizenship to foreigners living for 7 consecutive years, says report The Chief Justice grilled the defence secretary, retired Lt Gen Mohammad Hilal Hussain, reported Dawn newspaper. The CJP asked whether structures, such as "cinemas and wedding halls", were built for defence purposes. "This land was given to you for strategic and defence (purposes and yet) you have started commercial activities on it. Were wedding halls, cinemas and housing societies built for defence purposes?" the chief justice asked. All Askari Housing Projects, which are called as Army Housing Scheme Defence, were built on cantonment lands, remarked CJP. Also Read: Pakistan imposes travel ban on African countries amid Omicron alarm "We have decided that this will not happen again," the defence secretary said. He added that the construction of housing societies and military land’s commercial use would be checked and stopped. Justice Amin asked defence secretary to provide a written explanation on how would that be made possible. "Go and tell all the chiefs (of the armed forces) that the land meant for defence purposes will not be used for commercial objectives. Go to all the military cantonments and tell them the land will be used only for strategic purposes," CJP Ahmed ordered the defence secretary. (With inputs from agencies)

Army colonels, majors are acting like kings, says chief justice of Pakistan  

Around the world, there has been a lot of mistrust between several nations for years. This has led to many angry statements, incursions, freedom of navigation actions or movements of militaries towards the border. &nbsp;

For a long time, there has been an uptick in the tensions between China and Japan, US and China, Philippines and China, Ukraine and Russia, India and Pakistan, India and China, EU and China, Belarus and EU, UK and France, US and North Korea, US and Iran, Iran and Israel, Israel and Palestine, France and Australia, etc. The list seems to be endless. &nbsp;

Instead of resolving the issues, the tensions seem to be rising with every hour. The countries are making all attempts to buy new weapons, forge stronger alliances and spending billions of dollars in coercion. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japanese-pm-fumio-kishida-vows-to-consider-all-options-to-counter-china-432300" hreflang="en">Japanese PM Fumio Kishida vows to consider 'all options' to counter China</a>

Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that he is thinking of considering ''all options'' to counter China. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also said that Russia is a planning coup to overthrow his government. &nbsp;&nbsp;

China has been saying for years that independent Taiwan is its integral part. China has also been claiming whole of South China Sea when others like Philippines, Vietnam, etc have conflicting claims. &nbsp;&nbsp;

China and Japan have been claiming same set of islands with different names. Iran has been claiming its nuclear programme is peaceful while its adversaries think it is building bombs. &nbsp;&nbsp;

So, there have been several enraging claims and comments for a long time. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelenskiy-says-russia-is-planning-coup-against-him-432250" hreflang="en">Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Russia is planning coup against him</a>

As if this was not enough, many countries have been supporting rival parties in Syria, Libya and Yemen. This has turned these countries into war zones, displacing and killing numerous people. &nbsp;&nbsp;

The sole reason for this is the mistrust between the nations. It has been fuelled by unilateral attempts to change status quo of different sorts, pursue unsubstantial claims or abuse of power. &nbsp;&nbsp;

But the real question is will it stop anywhere? &nbsp;

The answer to this question is visible but one can hope that better sense will prevail and it may not escalate into a full-fledged war.

Around the world, there has been a lot of mistrust between several nations for years. This has led to many angry statements, incursions, freedom of navigation actions or movements of militaries towards the border.

Around the world, there has been a lot of mistrust between several nations for years. This has led to many angry statements, incursions, freedom of navigation actions or movements of militaries towards the border. For a long time, there has been an uptick in the tensions between China and Japan, US and China, Philippines and China, Ukraine and Russia, India and Pakistan, India and China, EU and China, Belarus and EU, UK and France, US and North Korea, US and Iran, Iran and Israel, Israel and Palestine, France and Australia, etc. The list seems to be endless. Instead of resolving the issues, the tensions seem to be rising with every hour. The countries are making all attempts to buy new weapons, forge stronger alliances and spending billions of dollars in coercion. Also Read: Japanese PM Fumio Kishida vows to consider 'all options' to counter China Recently, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said that he is thinking of considering ''all options'' to counter China. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy also said that Russia is a planning coup to overthrow his government. China has been saying for years that independent Taiwan is its integral part. China has also been claiming whole of South China Sea when others like Philippines, Vietnam, etc have conflicting claims. China and Japan have been claiming same set of islands with different names. Iran has been claiming its nuclear programme is peaceful while its adversaries think it is building bombs. So, there have been several enraging claims and comments for a long time. Also Read: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy says Russia is planning coup against him As if this was not enough, many countries have been supporting rival parties in Syria, Libya and Yemen. This has turned these countries into war zones, displacing and killing numerous people. The sole reason for this is the mistrust between the nations. It has been fuelled by unilateral attempts to change status quo of different sorts, pursue unsubstantial claims or abuse of power. But the real question is will it stop anywhere? The answer to this question is visible but one can hope that better sense will prevail and it may not escalate into a full-fledged war.

Can mistrust between nations end on a positive note?

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country. &nbsp;&nbsp;

In the meeting, the PM and top officials will discuss about the way ahead, said government sources on Saturday. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-warns-against-travel-curbs-due-to-new-variant-says-closely-monitoring-432286">WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring'</a>

The move comes as the world has been taking several kinds of steps to contain the spread of the new variant, which has already been found in Israel and some countries of Europe. &nbsp;

The new strain of the coronavirus has been classified as a highly transmissible virus of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). &nbsp;

Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P K Mishra, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul among others will be present at the meeting. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251" hreflang="en">As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant</a>

Several countries have already imposed travel curbs and tightened border controls. &nbsp;&nbsp;

According to Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday, India has witnessed a single-day rise of 8,318 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,63,749. The active cases have declined to 1,07,019, the lowest in 541 days. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country.

With the emergence of a new Covid variant named as Omicron, which was first detected in southern Africa, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is chairing an important meeting to assess the situation of the pandemic and the vaccination drive in the country. In the meeting, the PM and top officials will discuss about the way ahead, said government sources on Saturday. Also Read: WHO warns against travel curbs due to new variant, says 'closely monitoring' The move comes as the world has been taking several kinds of steps to contain the spread of the new variant, which has already been found in Israel and some countries of Europe. The new strain of the coronavirus has been classified as a highly transmissible virus of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO). Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister, P K Mishra, Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba, Union Health Secretary Rajesh Bhushan and NITI Aayog member (health) Dr V K Paul among others will be present at the meeting. Also Read: As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant Several countries have already imposed travel curbs and tightened border controls. According to Union Health Ministry data updated on Saturday, India has witnessed a single-day rise of 8,318 new coronavirus infections. It has taken the country's total tally of Covid cases to 3,45,63,749. The active cases have declined to 1,07,019, the lowest in 541 days. (With inputs from agencies)

As new Covid variant emerges, Indian PM Modi chairs vital meeting to assess situation

In what can be called a welcome surprise, visitors to Lake Manitoba in Canada witnessed a rare phenomenon, which is only seen every few years around the world. &nbsp;

The weather conditions seem to have become conducive for the formation of thousands of slush balls along the shore of the massive lake. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/baby-on-a-snowboard-is-grabbing-eyeballs-in-china-432201" hreflang="en">Baby on a snowboard is grabbing eyeballs in China</a>

Steep Rock Kayak owner Peter Hofbauer said, "I’ve seen pancake-shaped ice but not thousands of spherically shaped balls." Hofbauer said that he has lived in Manitoba for around 40 years. &nbsp;

According to the experts, this phenomenon can be witnessed when air temperatures are below freezing and there are onshore winds and waves to ensure the waterway does not become a solid sheet of ice. &nbsp;

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Jeffrey Kavanaugh, associate professor, University of Alberta, said that finally some form of seeding will form into ice. It will continuously grow into a slush ball. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ultra-rare-deep-sea-footballfish-washes-ashore-california-beach-432233" hreflang="en">‘Ultra-rare deep-sea’ footballfish washes ashore California beach</a>

"Because of its relative rarity, slush ball formation isn’t particularly well understood," Kavanaugh added. &nbsp;

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What’s cooler than being cool? Ice Cold! 
 
Lake Manitoba is putting on a show. 
This rare occurrence creates these ice balls. The shapes form as wind and waves move the almost frozen water combined with rapidly cooling air temps. <a href="https://t.co/3o8n9ZCGh1">pic.twitter.com/3o8n9ZCGh1</a>
— George StroumbouloPHÒulos 🐺 🇨🇦🇺🇦🇬🇷🇵🇱🇪🇬 (@strombo) <a href="https://twitter.com/strombo/status/1463671539451187202?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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On Twitter, a user, said, “What’s cooler than being cool? Ice Cold! Lake Manitoba is putting on a show. This rare occurrence creates these ice balls. The shapes form as wind and waves move the almost frozen water combined with rapidly cooling air temps.” &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

In what can be called a welcome surprise, visitors to Lake Manitoba in Canada witnessed a rare phenomenon, which is only seen every few years around the world. The weather conditions seem to have become conducive for the formation of thousands of slush balls along the shore of the massive lake.

In what can be called a welcome surprise, visitors to Lake Manitoba in Canada witnessed a rare phenomenon, which is only seen every few years around the world. The weather conditions seem to have become conducive for the formation of thousands of slush balls along the shore of the massive lake. Also Read: Baby on a snowboard is grabbing eyeballs in China Steep Rock Kayak owner Peter Hofbauer said, "I’ve seen pancake-shaped ice but not thousands of spherically shaped balls." Hofbauer said that he has lived in Manitoba for around 40 years. According to the experts, this phenomenon can be witnessed when air temperatures are below freezing and there are onshore winds and waves to ensure the waterway does not become a solid sheet of ice. × Jeffrey Kavanaugh, associate professor, University of Alberta, said that finally some form of seeding will form into ice. It will continuously grow into a slush ball. Also Read: ‘Ultra-rare deep-sea’ footballfish washes ashore California beach "Because of its relative rarity, slush ball formation isn’t particularly well understood," Kavanaugh added. What’s cooler than being cool? Ice Cold! Lake Manitoba is putting on a show. This rare occurrence creates these ice balls. The shapes form as wind and waves move the almost frozen water combined with rapidly cooling air temps. pic.twitter.com/3o8n9ZCGh1 — George StroumbouloPHÒulos 🐺 🇨🇦🇺🇦🇬🇷🇵🇱🇪🇬 (@strombo) November 25, 2021 × On Twitter, a user, said, “What’s cooler than being cool? Ice Cold! Lake Manitoba is putting on a show. This rare occurrence creates these ice balls. The shapes form as wind and waves move the almost frozen water combined with rapidly cooling air temps.” (With inputs from agencies)

Numerous rare ice formations in Canada's Lake Manitoba makes people go wow

We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From&nbsp;US looking to restrict travel over fears of new variant as a 'precautionary measure' to&nbsp;Ukraine's president saying Russia is planning coup against him,&nbsp;we have it all.

You can also read about&nbsp;BioNTech looking to update its jab within 100 days amid efficiency concerns&nbsp;if needed,&nbsp;new analysis revealing Merck's Covid-19 pill&nbsp;Molnupiravir&nbsp;has lower efficacy and&nbsp;Moderna saying it will develop booster shot for new coronavirus variant.

Please click on the headline to read the full story.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-a-precautionary-measure-us-to-restrict-travel-over-fears-of-new-covid-19-variant-432251">As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant</a>

<img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b7493d7e-d7f6-4ec2-94c6-ca2a98d70f6c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RW1.JPG" />

Joining the European Union, recently the US will be restricting travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. Starting from Monday, only US citizens and residents will be allowed to travel from the region.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-needed-biontech-to-update-its-covid-jab-within-100-days-amid-efficiency-concerns-against-omicron-432258">If needed, BioNTech to update its jab within 100 days amid efficiency concerns</a>

<img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="70234a13-cbd4-4e5e-9e38-0f76ee282f3c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RW2.JPG" />

As the concerns over the efficiency of vaccines against the new variant Omicron emerges, BioNTech says it can update the version of its vaccine within 100 days if the new variant first detected in southern Africa&nbsp;is found to reduce existing immunity.&nbsp;The company says it will not just produce but also ship it in the timeline.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ukrainian-president-volodymyr-zelenskiy-says-russia-is-planning-coup-against-him-432250">Ukraine's president says Russia is planning coup against him</a>

<img alt="Brief 5" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c7767c10-2a87-4ce3-8fba-1e5accd5d09d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RW3.JPG" />

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that Kiev has uncovered a coup plot involving Russian citizens. According to him, ''We have challenges not only from the Russian Federation and possible escalation - we have big internal challenges. I received information that a coup d'etat will take place in our country on December 1-2.''

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-analysis-reveals-mercks-covid-19-pill-molnupiravir-has-lower-efficacy-432260">New analysis reveals Merck's Covid-19 pill, Molnupiravir, has lower efficacy</a>

<img alt="Brief 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d9ff2d6f-b7af-4c8a-a19c-c22a9c81e93e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RW4.JPG" />

US Food and Drug Administration approved molnupiravir, an anti-Covid pill developed by Merck, as effective against the deadly virus. However, the recent analysis shows a lower efficacy rate than a previous estimate. The preliminary report will be used to guide a panel of FDA experts to consider whether to authorise emergency use of the pill.

&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moderna-says-it-will-develop-booster-shot-for-new-coronavirus-variant-432259">Moderna says it will develop booster shot for new coronavirus variant</a>

<img alt="Brief 6" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="6ce4e69c-b740-4637-a345-139fd529db65" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/RW5.JPG" />

The US pharmaceutical company Moderna is going to develop a booster dose against the new Omicron variant of COVID-19. Moderna said the company is working to address the new threat and it will also increase the dose of its existing vaccine.

&nbsp;

Watch | Gravitas: #OrangeTheWorld: Women demand a safer world

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We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From US looking to restrict travel over fears of new variant as a 'precautionary measure' to Ukraine's president saying Russia is planning coup against him, we have it all.

We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From US looking to restrict travel over fears of new variant as a 'precautionary measure' to Ukraine's president saying Russia is planning coup against him, we have it all. You can also read about BioNTech looking to update its jab within 100 days amid efficiency concerns if needed, new analysis revealing Merck's Covid-19 pill Molnupiravir has lower efficacy and Moderna saying it will develop booster shot for new coronavirus variant. Please click on the headline to read the full story. As a 'precautionary measure', US to restrict travel over fears of new variant Joining the European Union, recently the US will be restricting travel from South Africa and seven other southern African countries, including, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. Starting from Monday, only US citizens and residents will be allowed to travel from the region. If needed, BioNTech to update its jab within 100 days amid efficiency concerns As the concerns over the efficiency of vaccines against the new variant Omicron emerges, BioNTech says it can update the version of its vaccine within 100 days if the new variant first detected in southern Africa is found to reduce existing immunity. The company says it will not just produce but also ship it in the timeline. Ukraine's president says Russia is planning coup against him Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has said that Kiev has uncovered a coup plot involving Russian citizens. According to him, ''We have challenges not only from the Russian Federation and possible escalation - we have big internal challenges. I received information that a coup d'etat will take place in our country on December 1-2.'' New analysis reveals Merck's Covid-19 pill, Molnupiravir, has lower efficacy US Food and Drug Administration approved molnupiravir, an anti-Covid pill developed by Merck, as effective against the deadly virus. However, the recent analysis shows a lower efficacy rate than a previous estimate. The preliminary report will be used to guide a panel of FDA experts to consider whether to authorise emergency use of the pill. Moderna says it will develop booster shot for new coronavirus variant The US pharmaceutical company Moderna is going to develop a booster dose against the new Omicron variant of COVID-19. Moderna said the company is working to address the new threat and it will also increase the dose of its existing vaccine. Watch | Gravitas: #OrangeTheWorld: Women demand a safer world ×

Morning news brief: BioNTech to update jab, coup against Ukraine's president and more

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