<p>After being passed from one collector to another for decades, a Bible belonging to a Jewish family in Nazi Germany has finally made its way back to its descendants.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The original owners of the Bible, Eduard and Ernestine Leiter, had to leave their home due to the growing persecution in Nazi Germany. They later died in a concentration camp in Poland. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>Diving among ancient ruins where Romans used to party</p>

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<p>Over 80 years later, the researchers and historians have traced the couple's lineage and returned the book to the family, a Washington Post report said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In 2017, the Bible was put up for sale on eBay. Artist and historian Gerhard Roese noticed, the book contained illustrations from a late 19th century famous artist, Gustave Dore. Dore's illustrations implied that the Bible may have belonged to a family during the Holocaust.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The search for the descendants of the original owners was made by the historian along with the support of the researchers at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/62-year-old-kathy-hochul-becomes-first-female-governor-of-new-york-state-in-us-408267" hreflang="en">62-year-old Kathy Hochul becomes first female governor of New York state in US</a></strong></p>

<p>Putting in hard labour, the team took around four years to find the descendants. Finally, the owner's great-great-grandson was found living in New York City.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The descendants were overjoyed to have a piece of their family's history returned to them. It allowed the family to learn more about its ancestors.&nbsp;</p>


After being passed from one collector to another for decades, a Bible belonging to a Jewish family in Nazi Germany has finally made its way back to its descendants.

After being passed from one collector to another for decades, a Bible belonging to a Jewish family in Nazi Germany has finally made its way back to its descendants. The original owners of the Bible, Eduard and Ernestine Leiter, had to leave their home due to the growing persecution in Nazi Germany. They later died in a concentration camp in Poland. Watch: Diving among ancient ruins where Romans used to party × Over 80 years later, the researchers and historians have traced the couple's lineage and returned the book to the family, a Washington Post report said. In 2017, the Bible was put up for sale on eBay. Artist and historian Gerhard Roese noticed, the book contained illustrations from a late 19th century famous artist, Gustave Dore. Dore's illustrations implied that the Bible may have belonged to a family during the Holocaust. The search for the descendants of the original owners was made by the historian along with the support of the researchers at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Also Read: 62-year-old Kathy Hochul becomes first female governor of New York state in US Putting in hard labour, the team took around four years to find the descendants. Finally, the owner's great-great-grandson was found living in New York City. The descendants were overjoyed to have a piece of their family's history returned to them. It allowed the family to learn more about its ancestors.

Bible returned to Jewish family’s descendants after 80 years: Report 

<p>The world’s largest mammals, blue whales, have finally returned to Atlantic coast of Spain after an interval of more than 40 years. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A marine biologist Bruno Díaz, who is also head of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute in O Grove, Galicia, spotted the first one off the coast of Galicia in north-west Spain in 2017.</p>

<p><strong>Watch |&nbsp;</strong>Solar Orbiter spacecraft captures Venus glare</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p>Another whale was spotted in 2018, another in the following year. In 2020, two whales were seen. Just a week ago, a different one was sited off Islas Cíes, near O Grove. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>“It was not yet clear whether the climate crisis was leading the creatures to change their habits and return to an area where they were hunted almost to extinction,” Díaz said.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/this-italian-town-is-selling-houses-for-less-than-a-burgers-price-408223" hreflang="en">This Italian town is selling houses for less than a burger's price</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>

<p>The biologist said, “I believe the moratorium on whaling has been a key factor. In the 1970s, just before the ban was introduced, an entire generation of blue whales disappeared. Now, more than 40 years later, we’re seeing the return of the descendants of the few that survived.” &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>A centuries-old whaling industry used to thrive in Galicia through a dozen whaling ports. Until 1986, Spain did not ban whaling. Till the ban could come up, the blue whale was all but extinct in the region. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>


The world’s largest mammals, blue whales, have finally returned to Atlantic coast of Spain after an interval of more than 40 years. A marine biologist Bruno Díaz, who is also head of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute in O Grove, Galicia, spotted the first one off the coast of Galicia in north-west Spain in 2017.

The world’s largest mammals, blue whales, have finally returned to Atlantic coast of Spain after an interval of more than 40 years. A marine biologist Bruno Díaz, who is also head of the Bottlenose Dolphin Research Institute in O Grove, Galicia, spotted the first one off the coast of Galicia in north-west Spain in 2017. Watch | Solar Orbiter spacecraft captures Venus glare × Another whale was spotted in 2018, another in the following year. In 2020, two whales were seen. Just a week ago, a different one was sited off Islas Cíes, near O Grove. “It was not yet clear whether the climate crisis was leading the creatures to change their habits and return to an area where they were hunted almost to extinction,” Díaz said. Also Read: This Italian town is selling houses for less than a burger's price The biologist said, “I believe the moratorium on whaling has been a key factor. In the 1970s, just before the ban was introduced, an entire generation of blue whales disappeared. Now, more than 40 years later, we’re seeing the return of the descendants of the few that survived.” A centuries-old whaling industry used to thrive in Galicia through a dozen whaling ports. Until 1986, Spain did not ban whaling. Till the ban could come up, the blue whale was all but extinct in the region.

After a 40-year hiatus, blue whales return to Atlantic coast of Spain     

<p>US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.</p>

<p>Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>Pentagon says no change in timeline of Afghan withdrawal</p>

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<p>During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims.</p>

<p>During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also&nbsp;announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said.</p>

<p>Her trip to Vietnam got delayed by several hours due to an investigation into two possible incidents of the so-called Havana syndrome&nbsp;in Hanoi.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/israels-new-leader-to-present-iran-plan-in-first-white-house-visit-408170">Israel's new leader to present Iran plan in first White House visit</a></strong></p>

<p>The&nbsp;syndrome is&nbsp;a mysterious health ailment plaguing US&nbsp;diplomats. It is a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses.</p>

<p>Although the investigation was in its early stages, the&nbsp;officials deemed it safe for the&nbsp;vice president&nbsp;to make her scheduled stop.</p>

<p>Kamala Harris is on a week-long visit to Southeast Asia.&nbsp;She has arrived in Hanoi from Singapore where she delivered a sharp rebuke to China for its incursions in the South China Sea.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.

US Vice President Kamala Harris met Vietnam's top leaders on Wednesday. She offered support in several key areas, including the enhancement of the country's maritime security in an effort to counter Beijing's increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea. Harris also offered more visits by US warships during her talks with Vietnam's President Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. Watch: Pentagon says no change in timeline of Afghan withdrawal × During a meeting with the Vietnamese president in Hanoi, Harris said there was a need to increase pressure on Beijing over its maritime claims. During the talks, Harris offered Vietnam vaccines and aid to tackle COVID-19. She also announced the launch of several programmes to help combat climate change, a White House official said. Her trip to Vietnam got delayed by several hours due to an investigation into two possible incidents of the so-called Havana syndrome in Hanoi. Also Read: Israel's new leader to present Iran plan in first White House visit The syndrome is a mysterious health ailment plaguing US diplomats. It is a condition of unknown origin with symptoms including dizziness, nausea, migraines and memory lapses. Although the investigation was in its early stages, the officials deemed it safe for the vice president to make her scheduled stop. Kamala Harris is on a week-long visit to Southeast Asia. She has arrived in Hanoi from Singapore where she delivered a sharp rebuke to China for its incursions in the South China Sea. (With inputs from agencies)

US vice president offers Vietnam support to counter Beijing in South China Sea 

<p>Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. &nbsp;</p>

<p>“Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter. &nbsp;</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa<br />
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Press release- <a href="https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm">https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm</a> <a href="https://t.co/r7Hv6p6qfr">pic.twitter.com/r7Hv6p6qfr</a></p>
— Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs/status/1430418670975479814?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2021</a></blockquote>
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<p>Meanwhile, India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operations of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” &nbsp;</p>

<p>Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>WION ground report from inside Kabul airport</p>

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<p>“Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. &nbsp;</p>

<p>India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/taliban-appoints-ex-guantanamo-detainee-as-acting-defence-minister-report-408211">Taliban appoints ex-Guantanamo detainee as acting defence minister: Report</a></strong></p>

<p>So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. &nbsp;</p>

<p>Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. &nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>


Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. “Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter.

Indian Government has decided to let people, who are fleeing Afghanistan after Taliban’s takeover, enter the country on an e-Visa only. “Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan, all Afghan nationals, henceforth, must travel to India only on e-Visa,” said spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs on Twitter. Owing to prevailing security situation in Afghanistan all Afghan nationals henceforth must travel to India only on e-Visa Press release- https://t.co/aU2UnZW5Tm pic.twitter.com/r7Hv6p6qfr — Spokesperson, Ministry of Home Affairs (@PIBHomeAffairs) August 25, 2021 × Meanwhile, India on Tuesday formally named one of its “complicated” rescue operations of citizens from war-torn Afghanistan, calling it “Operation Devi Shakti.” Saluting the efforts of the Indian Air Force and Air India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar made the announcement on Twitter after 78 people were brought to New Delhi via Dushanbe, Tajikistan. Watch: WION ground report from inside Kabul airport × “Op Devi Shakti continues. 78 evacuees from Kabul arrive via Dushanbe. Salute @IAF_MCC, @AirIndiain and #TeamMEA for their untiring efforts,” Jaishankar tweeted. India began its rescue mission in coordination with the US, Qatar, Tajikistan and several other friendly countries. On August 16, 40 Indians were airlifted from Kabul, a day after the Taliban seized control of the Afghan capital city. Also Read | Taliban appoints ex-Guantanamo detainee as acting defence minister: Report So far, India has managed to evacuate over 800 people amid deteriorating security situation at Kabul airport. Thousands of Afghans have been swarming at Kabul airport for the past one week, in a desperate attempt to flee the country fearing the Taliban's rule. (With inputs from agencies)

Now, Afghan nationals can travel to India on e-Visa only

<p>China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
The Ministry of Education said Chinese President Xi Jinping's "thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era" would be taught from primary school level all the way to university.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov</p>

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<p>The move is aimed at strengthening "resolve to listen to and follow the Party" and new teaching materials must "cultivate patriotic feelings", the guidelines said.<br />
<br />
Since coming to power in 2012, the Chinese President has sought to strengthen the ruling Chinese Communist Party's role in all areas of society, including its businesses, schools and cultural institutions.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazil-governors-concerned-over-bolsonaro-support-among-military-police-408175" hreflang="en">Brazil governors concerned over Bolsonaro support among military police</a></strong><br />
<br />
"Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" was formally enshrined in the country`s constitution in 2018. Xi's personal power has also been strengthened by the abolition of presidential term limits.<br />
<br />
In a speech to mark the centenary of the Communist Party celebrated in July, Xi vowed to "enhance" the Party's leadership, uphold his own "core" leadership and strengthen the unity of the Chinese people.</p>


China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday.

China will incorporate "Xi Jinping Thought" into its national curriculum to help "establish Marxist belief" in the country's youth, the education ministry said in new guidelines published on Tuesday. The Ministry of Education said Chinese President Xi Jinping's "thought on socialism with Chinese characteristics in the new era" would be taught from primary school level all the way to university. Watch: Russia, China, US ready to serve as mediators in Afghanistan says Sergey Lavrov × The move is aimed at strengthening "resolve to listen to and follow the Party" and new teaching materials must "cultivate patriotic feelings", the guidelines said. Since coming to power in 2012, the Chinese President has sought to strengthen the ruling Chinese Communist Party's role in all areas of society, including its businesses, schools and cultural institutions. Also Read: Brazil governors concerned over Bolsonaro support among military police "Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism With Chinese Characteristics for a New Era" was formally enshrined in the country`s constitution in 2018. Xi's personal power has also been strengthened by the abolition of presidential term limits. In a speech to mark the centenary of the Communist Party celebrated in July, Xi vowed to "enhance" the Party's leadership, uphold his own "core" leadership and strengthen the unity of the Chinese people.

China to add 'Xi Jinping Thought' to national curriculum

<p>Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades.<br />
<br />
Speaking at a news conference in Algiers, Foreign Minister Ramdane Lamamra accused Morocco of using Pegasus spyware against its officials, supporting a separatist group and failing in bilateral commitments, including on the Western Sahara issue.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with Morocco over 'hostile issues'</p>

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<p>"The Moroccan kingdom has never stopped its hostile actions against Algeria," he said, announcing the immediate cessation of ties. Consulates in each country, however, will stay open, he added.<br />
<br />
Morocco's Foreign Ministry said in a statement published on social media that it regretted what it called an unjustified decision and said it would remain a "credible and loyal partner" to the Algerian people.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/all-is-well-in-cyberspace-websites-of-ousted-afghanistan-govt-are-still-up-a-week-after-taliban-takeover-408189" hreflang="en">All is well in cyberspace: Websites of ousted Afghanistan govt are still up a week after Taliban takeover</a></strong><br />
<br />
While the border between the two North African powers has been closed since 1994, diplomatic relations have not been broken since they were restored in 1988 following an earlier dispute.<br />
<br />
Morocco has said for years it wants the border to reopen. Algeria has said it must stay shut for security reasons.</p>


Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades.

Algeria cut diplomatic relations with Morocco on Tuesday, citing what it called hostile actions by its most populous neighbour with which it has had strained relations for decades. Speaking at a news conference in Algiers, Foreign Minister Ramdane Lamamra accused Morocco of using Pegasus spyware against its officials, supporting a separatist group and failing in bilateral commitments, including on the Western Sahara issue. Watch: Algeria cuts diplomatic ties with Morocco over 'hostile issues' × "The Moroccan kingdom has never stopped its hostile actions against Algeria," he said, announcing the immediate cessation of ties. Consulates in each country, however, will stay open, he added. Morocco's Foreign Ministry said in a statement published on social media that it regretted what it called an unjustified decision and said it would remain a "credible and loyal partner" to the Algerian people. Also Read: All is well in cyberspace: Websites of ousted Afghanistan govt are still up a week after Taliban takeover While the border between the two North African powers has been closed since 1994, diplomatic relations have not been broken since they were restored in 1988 following an earlier dispute. Morocco has said for years it wants the border to reopen. Algeria has said it must stay shut for security reasons.

Algeria cuts diplomatic relations with Morocco citing 'hostile actions'

<p>We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From&nbsp;US grappling with August 31 evacuation deadline to&nbsp;Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa&nbsp;saying&nbsp;situation is serious,&nbsp;we have it all.&nbsp;</p>

<p>You can also&nbsp;read about&nbsp;Israeli jets striking Gaza again after incendiary balloon attacks, and&nbsp;Kamala Harris pledging US to pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Please click on the headline to read the full story.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/at-risk-afghans-us-grapples-with-august-31-evacuation-deadline-407919"><strong>'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Br1" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbc0b35f-c63d-4c11-8f04-bacad4baa399" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BAS1_0.JPG" /></p>

<p>As the US ramped up its evacuation effort on Monday amid chaotic scenes at Kabul airport, Reuters news agency quoting a US State Department official said the commitment to pullout "at-risk" Afghans extended beyond the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-jets-strike-gaza-again-after-incendiary-balloon-attacks-407907"><strong>Israeli jets strike Gaza again after incendiary balloon attacks</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Brief 2" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="c3b874fc-0a1c-4f06-b5d3-d0afa640673c" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BAS4_0.JPG" /></p>

<p>Israeli jets bombed Gaza on Monday after incendiary balloons hit the country days after clashes between Israelis and Palestinians over the weekend. The strikes were carried out in Khan Younes in the south and Jabalia in the north, however, there were no reports of any casualties.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kamala-harris-pledges-us-to-pursue-a-free-and-open-indo-pacific-407925"><strong>Kamala Harris pledges US to pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Brief 3" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fa9f5090-0b03-4a84-acc5-98bbe88594fb" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BAS3_0.JPG" /></p>

<p>Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US leader is currently on a trip to Singapore.&nbsp;</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/situation-is-serious-says-afghan-sikh-mp-narendra-khalsa-407909"><strong>Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa</strong></a></p>

<p><img alt="Brief 4" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a3cc7de3-ff0a-4b20-b815-637168ebe7ef" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/BAS2_0.JPG" /></p>

<p>Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Singh Khalsa has called the situation in his country "serious" and added that everyone is scared. Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan.</p>

<p>&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | </strong>Gravitas: Taliban tries to 'reach out' to India</p>

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<p>&nbsp;</p>


We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From US grappling with August 31 evacuation deadline to Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa saying situation is serious, we have it all.

We bring you the biggest stories of the day so far. From US grappling with August 31 evacuation deadline to Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa saying situation is serious, we have it all. You can also read about Israeli jets striking Gaza again after incendiary balloon attacks, and Kamala Harris pledging US to pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific. Please click on the headline to read the full story. 'At risk' Afghans: US grapples with August 31 evacuation deadline As the US ramped up its evacuation effort on Monday amid chaotic scenes at Kabul airport, Reuters news agency quoting a US State Department official said the commitment to pullout "at-risk" Afghans extended beyond the August 31 deadline set by the Biden administration. Israeli jets strike Gaza again after incendiary balloon attacks Israeli jets bombed Gaza on Monday after incendiary balloons hit the country days after clashes between Israelis and Palestinians over the weekend. The strikes were carried out in Khan Younes in the south and Jabalia in the north, however, there were no reports of any casualties. Kamala Harris pledges US to pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific Accusing Beijing of continuing to 'coerce' and 'intimidate' in the South China Sea, US Vice President Kamala Harris on Tuesday pledged Washington would pursue a free and open Indo-Pacific. The US leader is currently on a trip to Singapore. Situation is serious, says Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Khalsa Afghan Sikh MP Narendra Singh Khalsa has called the situation in his country "serious" and added that everyone is scared. Narendra Singh Khalsa is the son of Awtar Singh Khalsa, who was a Sikh representative to the Loya Jirga from Paktia province of Afghanistan. Watch | Gravitas: Taliban tries to 'reach out' to India ×

Morning news brief: US grapples with troops evacuation deadline and more

Aug 24 in history: British troops burn down the White House & Capitol and more

<p>If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule. &nbsp;</p>

<p>On Tuesday, Michelle Bachelet, the top UN human rights official, said that she had received credible reports of the violations. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | </strong>Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans</p>

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<p>Bachelet has urged the United Nations Human Rights Council, which is holding an emergency session at the request of Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to set up a mechanism to closely monitor Taliban actions. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Speaking before an emergency session on Afghanistan, the UN official said, "A fundamental red line will be the Taliban's treatment of women and girls.”</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-expected-to-decide-within-24-hours-on-afghan-evacuation-deadline-407926">Biden expected to decide within 24 hours on Afghan evacuation deadline</a></strong> &nbsp;</p>

<p>She urged the Taliban to honour commitments to respect the rights of women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities, and refrain from reprisals. She said, “The onus is now fully on the Taliban to translate these commitments into reality." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Bachelet told the council, "I strongly urge the Taliban to adopt norms of responsive governance and human rights, and to work to re-establish social cohesion and reconciliation, including through respect for the rights of all who have suffered during the decades of conflict." &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;</em></p>


If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule.

If reports are to be believed, serious violations have been committed by the Taliban in Afghanistan. The violations, include executions of civilians and restrictions on women and on protests against its rule. On Tuesday, Michelle Bachelet, the top UN human rights official, said that she had received credible reports of the violations. Watch | Reports: WHO says Kabul airport curbs blocking medical supplies for Afghans × Bachelet has urged the United Nations Human Rights Council, which is holding an emergency session at the request of Pakistan and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to set up a mechanism to closely monitor Taliban actions. Speaking before an emergency session on Afghanistan, the UN official said, "A fundamental red line will be the Taliban's treatment of women and girls.” Also Read: Biden expected to decide within 24 hours on Afghan evacuation deadline She urged the Taliban to honour commitments to respect the rights of women and girls, and ethnic and religious minorities, and refrain from reprisals. She said, “The onus is now fully on the Taliban to translate these commitments into reality." Bachelet told the council, "I strongly urge the Taliban to adopt norms of responsive governance and human rights, and to work to re-establish social cohesion and reconciliation, including through respect for the rights of all who have suffered during the decades of conflict." (With inputs from agencies)

Citing reports of executions, UN rights chief seeks mechanism to monitor Taliban actions

<p>The tallest man in the US, Igor Vovkovinskiy, has died at the age of 38 years in Minnesota. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>On Friday, the Ukrainian-born Vovkovinskiy died of heart disease while getting treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, his family said. &nbsp;</p>

<p>His mother Svetlana Vovkovinska, who is also an ICU nurse at Mayo, announced&nbsp; his death on Facebook. &nbsp;</p>

<p>In 1989, Vovkovinskiy came to the Mayo Clinic as a child seeking treatment. At that time, a tumor was pressing against his pituitary gland, which caused it to secrete abnormal levels of growth hormone. He grew to become the tallest man in the US. His height was 7ft 8.33in (2.35m). He ended up staying in Rochester.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/chinas-zhurong-rover-travels-1000-metres-on-mars-surface-completes-planned-exploration-407968">China's Zhurong rover travels 1,000 metres on Mars surface, completes planned exploration</a></strong></p>

<p>Oleh Ladan, his older brother of Brooklyn Park, told the Star Tribune of Minneapolis that Vovkovinskiy was a celebrity when he arrived from Ukraine because of his size and the flickering cold war of the late 1980s. &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>

<p>Apart from appearing on the Dr Oz Show, Vovkovinskiy was called out by Barack Obama during a campaign rally in 2009, when the president noticed him near the stage wearing a T-shirt that read “World’s Biggest Obama Supporter”.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, he was born on September 8, 1982 in Bar, Ukraine to Vovkovinska and Oleksandr Ladan. A memorial service was held on Saturday.</p>


The tallest man in the US, Igor Vovkovinskiy, has died at the age of 38 years in Minnesota. On Friday, the Ukrainian-born Vovkovinskiy died of heart disease while getting treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, his family said.

The tallest man in the US, Igor Vovkovinskiy, has died at the age of 38 years in Minnesota. On Friday, the Ukrainian-born Vovkovinskiy died of heart disease while getting treatment at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, his family said. His mother Svetlana Vovkovinska, who is also an ICU nurse at Mayo, announced his death on Facebook. In 1989, Vovkovinskiy came to the Mayo Clinic as a child seeking treatment. At that time, a tumor was pressing against his pituitary gland, which caused it to secrete abnormal levels of growth hormone. He grew to become the tallest man in the US. His height was 7ft 8.33in (2.35m). He ended up staying in Rochester. Also Read: China's Zhurong rover travels 1,000 metres on Mars surface, completes planned exploration Oleh Ladan, his older brother of Brooklyn Park, told the Star Tribune of Minneapolis that Vovkovinskiy was a celebrity when he arrived from Ukraine because of his size and the flickering cold war of the late 1980s. Apart from appearing on the Dr Oz Show, Vovkovinskiy was called out by Barack Obama during a campaign rally in 2009, when the president noticed him near the stage wearing a T-shirt that read “World’s Biggest Obama Supporter”. According to Ranfranz and Vine Funeral Home, he was born on September 8, 1982 in Bar, Ukraine to Vovkovinska and Oleksandr Ladan. A memorial service was held on Saturday.

Ukrainian-born Igor Vovkovinskiy, tallest man in US, dies at age of 38  

<p>Medical issue with one of its astronauts has forced NASA to delay the spacewalk at the International Space Station. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The postponement was announced by the officials on Monday, just less than 24 hours before Mark Vande Hei was supposed to float outside. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;</strong><a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/asteroid-termed-potentially-hazardous-by-nasa-is-coming-near-earth-407273"><strong>Asteroid termed 'potentially hazardous' by NASA is coming near Earth</strong></a></p>

<p>The officials said, Vande Hei was dealing with “a minor medical issue”. They noted, it was not an emergency, but did not provide any further details. &nbsp;</p>

<p>54-year-old Vande Hei, who is a retired army colonel, has been at the space station since April. He is expected to remain there until next spring for a one-year mission. This is Vande Hei’s second stay at the station. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/ex-nasa-scientists-earth-saving-idea-involves-stealing-energy-from-jupiter-407863">Ex-NASA scientist's Earth-saving idea involves stealing energy from Jupiter</a></strong></p>

<p>On Tuesday, Vande Hei and Japanese astronaut Akihiko Hoshide were supposed to venture out to install a bracket for new solar wings. NASA said the work can wait. &nbsp;</p>

<p>The spacewalk will now be rescheduled after this weekend’s planned supply run by SpaceX and a September series of spacewalks on the Russian side of the orbiting lab, according to NASA.&nbsp;</p>


Medical issue with one of its astronauts has forced NASA to delay the spacewalk at the International Space Station. The postponement was announced by the officials on Monday, just less than 24 hours before Mark Vande Hei was supposed to float outside.

Medical issue with one of its astronauts has forced NASA to delay the spacewalk at the International Space Station. The postponement was announced by the officials on Monday, just less than 24 hours before Mark Vande Hei was supposed to float outside. Also Read: Asteroid termed 'potentially hazardous' by NASA is coming near Earth The officials said, Vande Hei was dealing with “a minor medical issue”. They noted, it was not an emergency, but did not provide any further details. 54-year-old Vande Hei, who is a retired army colonel, has been at the space station since April. He is expected to remain there until next spring for a one-year mission. This is Vande Hei’s second stay at the station. Also Read: Ex-NASA scientist's Earth-saving idea involves stealing energy from Jupiter On Tuesday, Vande Hei and Japanese astronaut Akihiko Hoshide were supposed to venture out to install a bracket for new solar wings. NASA said the work can wait. The spacewalk will now be rescheduled after this weekend’s planned supply run by SpaceX and a September series of spacewalks on the Russian side of the orbiting lab, according to NASA.

Astronaut’s medical issue makes NASA delay spacewalk at ISS  

<p>With thousands of desperate Afghans and foreigners massed at Kabul's airport in the hope of fleeing Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, US&nbsp;President Joe Biden is expected to decide as soon as Tuesday on whether to extend an August&nbsp;31 deadline to airlift Americans and their allies to safety.<br />
<br />
Biden warned on Sunday that the evacuation was going to be "hard and painful" and much could still go wrong. US&nbsp;troops might stay beyond an August&nbsp;31 deadline to oversee the evacuation, he said.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;</strong>'Why is world silent?', asks Afghan's First Female Sikh MP Anarkali Kaur Honaryar</p>

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<p>On Monday, an administration official told Reuters that Biden would decide within 24 hours whether to extend the timeline to give the Pentagon time to prepare.<br />
<br />
Beyond the need to remove thousands of Americans, citizens of allied countries and Afghans who worked with US&nbsp;forces, Department of Defense officials said it would still take days to fly out the 6,000 troops deployed to secure and run the airlift.</p>

<p><strong>Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-afghan-army-chief-wali-muhammad-ahmadzai-at-kabul-airport-set-to-leave-afghanistan-407948">Former Afghan Army chief at Kabul airport, set to leave Afghanistan</a></strong><br />
<br />
Some Biden advisers were arguing against extending the self-imposed deadline for security reasons. Biden could signal his intentions at a virtual meeting of the Group of Seven wealthy nations on Tuesday.<br />
<br />
Two US&nbsp;officials had said the expectation was that the United States would continue evacuations past August&nbsp;31. A senior State Department official told reporters the country's commitment to at-risk Afghans "doesn't end on August&nbsp;31."</p>

<p>A Taliban official said foreign forces had not sought an extension and it would not be granted if they had. Washington said negotiations were continuing.</p>


With thousands of desperate Afghans and foreigners massed at Kabul's airport in the hope of fleeing Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, US President Joe Biden is expected to decide as soon as Tuesday on whether to extend an August 31 deadline to airlift Americans and their allies to safety.

With thousands of desperate Afghans and foreigners massed at Kabul's airport in the hope of fleeing Afghanistan's new Taliban rulers, US President Joe Biden is expected to decide as soon as Tuesday on whether to extend an August 31 deadline to airlift Americans and their allies to safety. Biden warned on Sunday that the evacuation was going to be "hard and painful" and much could still go wrong. US troops might stay beyond an August 31 deadline to oversee the evacuation, he said. Watch: 'Why is world silent?', asks Afghan's First Female Sikh MP Anarkali Kaur Honaryar × On Monday, an administration official told Reuters that Biden would decide within 24 hours whether to extend the timeline to give the Pentagon time to prepare. Beyond the need to remove thousands of Americans, citizens of allied countries and Afghans who worked with US forces, Department of Defense officials said it would still take days to fly out the 6,000 troops deployed to secure and run the airlift. Also Read: Former Afghan Army chief at Kabul airport, set to leave Afghanistan Some Biden advisers were arguing against extending the self-imposed deadline for security reasons. Biden could signal his intentions at a virtual meeting of the Group of Seven wealthy nations on Tuesday. Two US officials had said the expectation was that the United States would continue evacuations past August 31. A senior State Department official told reporters the country's commitment to at-risk Afghans "doesn't end on August 31." A Taliban official said foreign forces had not sought an extension and it would not be granted if they had. Washington said negotiations were continuing.

Biden expected to decide within 24 hours on Afghan evacuation deadline

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