In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash&nbsp;helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. &nbsp;

Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising.&nbsp;

Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy.&nbsp;

Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp;

"All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview.&nbsp;

He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised.&nbsp;

The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place.&nbsp;

He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest.

In an attention-grabbing gesture after the speaker banned private security guards from all parties, a Tunisian MP took her seat in parliament wearing a motorcycle crash helmet and a bulletproof vest. Some of the guards had been accused of assault. Abir Moussi is a senior member of the secular Free Destourian party, known by its French acronym PDL. Moussi is a lawyer and supporter of the autocratic former president Zine al-Abidine Ben Ali, who was ousted in Tunisia’s 2011 uprising. Moussi was seen sitting in parliament with a picture of Ben Ali’s predecessor, Habib Bourguiba. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Hichem Mechichi said, Tunisia will seek a $4 billion loan programme from the International Monetary Fund, saying politicians faced a 'last opportunity' to save the economy. Mechichi said he expected talks to last about two months and had 'confidence' Tunisia could secure financial support to help it through an economic crisis that has been aggravated by the COVID-19 pandemic. "All efforts must be unified in Tunisia because we consider that we have reached the last opportunity and we must use it to save the economy," he said in an interview. He said he wanted a three-year loan programme and added that details of an agreement with powerful labour unions, seen as vital to unlock foreign funding, were still being finalised. The finance minister and central bank governor will visit the United States next week to start the negotiations, Mechichi said, and he will also go there when a deal is in place. He said Tunisia would rationalise rather than cut subsidies and said it was considering sales of minority stock it holds in some businesses to raise funds for investment in the most important publicly owned companies. (With input from agencies)

After her guards banned, Tunisian MP wears helmet, bulletproof vest in parliament  

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million.&nbsp;

Curbs on travel last year due to the pandemic dealt a serious blow to demand from countries reliant on tourism as well as sales at duty free, Habanos said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cuba's hand-rolled cigars, which include brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo and Partagas, are considered by many as the best in the world. &nbsp;

Habanos usually holds a festival early in the year for wealthy tobacco aficionados and retailers during which they tour plantations and factories and meet in the evenings to puff on Cuban smokes at extravagant parties. &nbsp;

This year, though, with Cuba grappling with its worst outbreak of COVID-19 yet and other countries also struggling to curb contagion, it is instead holding three days of virtual events, which kicked off on Tuesday.&nbsp;

"2020 has been a challenging year not just for our business but for the whole of humanity," Habanos said in a statement.&nbsp;

Cigars are one of the top exports for the Cuban economy, which shrank 11% last year as the pandemic and increased US sanctions exacerbated the cash crunch.&nbsp;

The Caribbean island cannot sell its signature export to the biggest market worldwide for cigars, the United States, due to the decades-old US trade embargo.&nbsp;

Europe remains the top regional market for Habanos, accounting for 50% of sales, followed by the Asian-Pacific area, which accounts for 16.2%, according to the statement.&nbsp;

The state-run Cuban News Agency cited Habanos officials at the event on Tuesday as saying that sales in Europe and Asia-Pacific had risen 2% and 10%, respectively. Revenue dropped 31% in Africa and the Middle East, however, and 21% in the Americas.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million.

Cuba's state cigar monopoly, Habanos SA, said on Tuesday that China had displaced Spain last year as its top market but rising demand in the Asian giant could not compensate for declines in sales elsewhere, with global revenue down 4% to $507 million. Curbs on travel last year due to the pandemic dealt a serious blow to demand from countries reliant on tourism as well as sales at duty free, Habanos said in a statement. Cuba's hand-rolled cigars, which include brands such as Cohiba, Montecristo and Partagas, are considered by many as the best in the world. Habanos usually holds a festival early in the year for wealthy tobacco aficionados and retailers during which they tour plantations and factories and meet in the evenings to puff on Cuban smokes at extravagant parties. This year, though, with Cuba grappling with its worst outbreak of COVID-19 yet and other countries also struggling to curb contagion, it is instead holding three days of virtual events, which kicked off on Tuesday. "2020 has been a challenging year not just for our business but for the whole of humanity," Habanos said in a statement. Cigars are one of the top exports for the Cuban economy, which shrank 11% last year as the pandemic and increased US sanctions exacerbated the cash crunch. The Caribbean island cannot sell its signature export to the biggest market worldwide for cigars, the United States, due to the decades-old US trade embargo. Europe remains the top regional market for Habanos, accounting for 50% of sales, followed by the Asian-Pacific area, which accounts for 16.2%, according to the statement. The state-run Cuban News Agency cited Habanos officials at the event on Tuesday as saying that sales in Europe and Asia-Pacific had risen 2% and 10%, respectively. Revenue dropped 31% in Africa and the Middle East, however, and 21% in the Americas. (With inputs from agencies)

China becomes top market for Cuba's legendary cigars 

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally.&nbsp;

John Cox is campaigning on the theme of 'beauty and the beast',&nbsp;the ‘beauty' being current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, known for his polished appearance in the state that is home to Hollywood. &nbsp;

Cox has cast himself as the 'beast', who will shake up politics in the most populous US state, where a brown bear features prominently on its flag.&nbsp;

"The beautiful politicians have failed California," Cox said during a rally in Sacramento, the state capital. "We need big, beastly changes to save it. I'll cut taxes, make California more affordable and shake up Sacramento."&nbsp;

For a publicity stunt, Cox brought a Kodiak bear, considered the largest ursine species, to his rally. &nbsp;

The bear, named "Tag," weighs about 1,100 pounds (500 kg) and was born in captivity and trained to appear in films and television series.&nbsp;

Tag displayed a locally appropriate laid-back attitude on Tuesday, content to wait patiently for the end of Cox's speech, munching on snacks given by his trainer or grooming himself with his tongue.&nbsp;

But the use of a bear for political and publicity purposes caused an outcry among animal rights advocates, such as PETA, who said&nbsp;it was "unfortunate and shameful that Tag the Kodiak bear has been exploited in this way."&nbsp;

"Bears need to be left alone, not confined to an open pen on asphalt and wheeled out for events," the NGO said on Twitter, urging "anyone with an ounce of decency to keep wild animals out of their publicity stunts."&nbsp;

A Republican-backed effort to recall Newsom, fueled by his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, has forced a special election that is set to be held later this year.&nbsp;

California allows voters to hold a referendum on replacing its governor if they can gather the signatures of 12 per cent of previous voters, which the campaign succeeded in doing.&nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally.

One of the many Republican candidates vying to replace the governor of California in an upcoming vote caused a stir on Tuesday by bringing a bear to his political rally. John Cox is campaigning on the theme of 'beauty and the beast', the ‘beauty' being current Democratic Governor Gavin Newsom, known for his polished appearance in the state that is home to Hollywood. Cox has cast himself as the 'beast', who will shake up politics in the most populous US state, where a brown bear features prominently on its flag. "The beautiful politicians have failed California," Cox said during a rally in Sacramento, the state capital. "We need big, beastly changes to save it. I'll cut taxes, make California more affordable and shake up Sacramento." For a publicity stunt, Cox brought a Kodiak bear, considered the largest ursine species, to his rally. The bear, named "Tag," weighs about 1,100 pounds (500 kg) and was born in captivity and trained to appear in films and television series. Tag displayed a locally appropriate laid-back attitude on Tuesday, content to wait patiently for the end of Cox's speech, munching on snacks given by his trainer or grooming himself with his tongue. But the use of a bear for political and publicity purposes caused an outcry among animal rights advocates, such as PETA, who said it was "unfortunate and shameful that Tag the Kodiak bear has been exploited in this way." "Bears need to be left alone, not confined to an open pen on asphalt and wheeled out for events," the NGO said on Twitter, urging "anyone with an ounce of decency to keep wild animals out of their publicity stunts." A Republican-backed effort to recall Newsom, fueled by his handling of the coronavirus pandemic, has forced a special election that is set to be held later this year. California allows voters to hold a referendum on replacing its governor if they can gather the signatures of 12 per cent of previous voters, which the campaign succeeded in doing. (With input from agencies)

California governor candidate brings a huge brown bear to rally 

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday.&nbsp;

Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report.&nbsp;

"That doesn't mean we've told anyone yet, so I feel like we should probably put some invites out," Ardern was quoted as saying by the report.&nbsp;

Ardern, 40, got engaged to Gayford, 44, during the Easter holidays in 2019 and they have a two-year-old daughter.&nbsp;

The wedding being planned in summer, which runs from December to February in the southern hemisphere, might not be celebrated in the traditional way as Ardern admitted she "feels a bit too old to have a bridal party", media reports quoted her as saying.&nbsp;

There is "nothing further to add over what has been reported this morning", a spokesman in the prime minister's office said.&nbsp;

Ardern became New Zealand's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2017 and is one of the few elected leaders to hold office while pregnant. &nbsp;

She returned to power last October delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century largely due to her government's decisive response to contain the COVID-19 outbreak.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday. Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report.

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern plans to get married during summer but did not disclose the date, local media reported on Wednesday. Ardern told Coast Radio that she and her partner television host Clarke Gayford have 'finally got a date' for the wedding, New Zealand Herald said in a report. "That doesn't mean we've told anyone yet, so I feel like we should probably put some invites out," Ardern was quoted as saying by the report. Ardern, 40, got engaged to Gayford, 44, during the Easter holidays in 2019 and they have a two-year-old daughter. The wedding being planned in summer, which runs from December to February in the southern hemisphere, might not be celebrated in the traditional way as Ardern admitted she "feels a bit too old to have a bridal party", media reports quoted her as saying. There is "nothing further to add over what has been reported this morning", a spokesman in the prime minister's office said. Ardern became New Zealand's youngest prime minister when she took office in 2017 and is one of the few elected leaders to hold office while pregnant. She returned to power last October delivering the biggest election victory for her centre-left Labour Party in half a century largely due to her government's decisive response to contain the COVID-19 outbreak. (With inputs from agencies)

New Zealand PM Ardern plans summer wedding: Report 

After spending emergency funds intended for coronavirus measures on a giant statue of a squid to promote the local tourism industry, a coastal town in Japan is facing harsh criticism.&nbsp;

Located in Ishikawa prefecture on the Japan Sea coast, Noto spent ¥25m (£164,000) on the 13-metre-long marine creature, according to the Chunichi Shimbun.&nbsp;

The flying squid was part of a tourism drive to help the area’s virus-hit economy, the newspaper quoted officials as saying.&nbsp;

The pink-and-white creature has flared tentacles. It also has an opening below its beak where people can pose for photographs.&nbsp;

Japan had earlier declared a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other regions, just three months before the country is supposed to host the Olympics.&nbsp;

"Today we decided to declare a state of emergency in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo prefectures," Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced, citing the rise of infections involving new virus variants. &nbsp;

The country's minister for virus response, Yasutoshi Nishimura, earlier warned of a "strong sense of crisis," saying, current restrictions were not sufficient.&nbsp;

The measure will run from April 25 to May 11, coinciding with the annual Golden Week holiday, Japan's busiest travel period.&nbsp;

Authorities wanted bars and restaurants to stop selling alcohol or close, and to shutter major commercial facilities like malls.&nbsp;

Spectators were also barred from sports events, which can continue behind closed doors, and remote working was encouraged.&nbsp;

Covid surges are placing a major strain on healthcare systems across the world, with no end in sight to a pandemic that has killed more than three million people. &nbsp;

(With input from agencies) &nbsp;

After spending emergency funds intended for coronavirus measures on a giant statue of a squid to promote the local tourism industry, a coastal town in Japan is facing harsh criticism.

After spending emergency funds intended for coronavirus measures on a giant statue of a squid to promote the local tourism industry, a coastal town in Japan is facing harsh criticism. Located in Ishikawa prefecture on the Japan Sea coast, Noto spent ¥25m (£164,000) on the 13-metre-long marine creature, according to the Chunichi Shimbun. The flying squid was part of a tourism drive to help the area’s virus-hit economy, the newspaper quoted officials as saying. The pink-and-white creature has flared tentacles. It also has an opening below its beak where people can pose for photographs. Japan had earlier declared a state of emergency in Tokyo and three other regions, just three months before the country is supposed to host the Olympics. "Today we decided to declare a state of emergency in Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Hyogo prefectures," Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga announced, citing the rise of infections involving new virus variants. The country's minister for virus response, Yasutoshi Nishimura, earlier warned of a "strong sense of crisis," saying, current restrictions were not sufficient. The measure will run from April 25 to May 11, coinciding with the annual Golden Week holiday, Japan's busiest travel period. Authorities wanted bars and restaurants to stop selling alcohol or close, and to shutter major commercial facilities like malls. Spectators were also barred from sports events, which can continue behind closed doors, and remote working was encouraged. Covid surges are placing a major strain on healthcare systems across the world, with no end in sight to a pandemic that has killed more than three million people. (With input from agencies)

Japanese town faces flak for spending Covid funds on huge squid statue 

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement.&nbsp;

Israel established formal relations with the UAE in September as part of a US-brokered agreement. The UAE and Israel share common concerns about Iran.&nbsp;

Biden and Prince Mohammed discussed "the nuclear and regional dimensions of the threat posed by Iran, as well as the common quest for de-escalation and peace" in the Middle East, the statement said.&nbsp;

Biden "underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel," it said. Biden "expressed his full support for strengthening and expanding these arrangements."&nbsp;

Biden and the crown prince also discussed Afghanistan and the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region, the White House said. &nbsp;

(With input from agencies)&nbsp;

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement.

US President Joe Biden, in a phone call on Tuesday with Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nahyan, underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, the White House said in a statement. Israel established formal relations with the UAE in September as part of a US-brokered agreement. The UAE and Israel share common concerns about Iran. Biden and Prince Mohammed discussed "the nuclear and regional dimensions of the threat posed by Iran, as well as the common quest for de-escalation and peace" in the Middle East, the statement said. Biden "underlined the strategic importance of the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel," it said. Biden "expressed his full support for strengthening and expanding these arrangements." Biden and the crown prince also discussed Afghanistan and the humanitarian crisis in Ethiopia's Tigray region, the White House said. (With input from agencies)

Biden stresses importance of normalisation with Israel in call with Abu Dhabi crown prince 

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Morning news brief: Fauci's advice to India, Bill and Melinda Gates divorce and more

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External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his four-day UK visit with a one-on-one meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, thanking him for support in the fight against COVID-19. &nbsp;

Ahead of the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers' summit that begins on Tuesday, they also held discussions over issues concerning the Indo-Pacific region, climate change, UN Security Council and Myanmar, according to a tweet by Jaishankar.&nbsp;

The focus of his discussions with Blinken was the American support during India's Covid challenge, especially the supply of oxygen and the drug, Remdesivir.&nbsp;

"Good to meet in person my old friend Secretary Blinken. Detailed discussion on the global Covid challenge, focusing on expanded vaccine production capacity and reliable supply chains," Jaishankar said in the Twitter statement.&nbsp;

"Expressed appreciation for the strong US support to India at this difficult time, especially oxygen and Remdesivir," the minister said. &nbsp;

Meanwhile, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement issued in Washington that the two leaders reviewed recent efforts in the fight against COVID-19, including US assistance to India, and expressed appreciation for each country's support throughout the pandemic. &nbsp;

Jaishankar and Blinken discussed "addressing the COVID-19 challenge and deepening the US-India comprehensive global strategic partnership,” Price said. During the meeting, Blinken reaffirmed India's important role when it comes to the climate crisis and as a leading partner in the Indo-Pacific, he said. &nbsp;

"They also discussed ways to deepen cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the UN Security Council and as a G7 guest country," Price said, adding that the two leaders looked forward to continue the US-India cooperation on the full range of bilateral and global issues. &nbsp;

Earlier, Jaishankar described it as a very good meeting.&nbsp;

"Among the many subjects we discussed was first and foremost the strong support we are getting from the United States on dealing with the COVID situation. We are very, very appreciative of that," he told reporters in a joint appearance with Blinken in London. &nbsp;

"We also discussed how our collaboration could help globally in expanding vaccination capabilities," he said after their bilateral meeting. &nbsp;

In his brief remarks, Blinken recognised the contribution of India when the United States was facing the COVID-19 crisis. &nbsp;

"We remember so well when India came to our assistance in the early days of Covid in a very important and powerful way," Blinken said. &nbsp;

"We are joined in this fight together and determined to do everything we can to help," he added.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his four-day UK visit with a one-on-one meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, thanking him for support in the fight against COVID-19.

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his four-day UK visit with a one-on-one meeting with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, thanking him for support in the fight against COVID-19. Ahead of the G7 Foreign and Development Ministers' summit that begins on Tuesday, they also held discussions over issues concerning the Indo-Pacific region, climate change, UN Security Council and Myanmar, according to a tweet by Jaishankar. The focus of his discussions with Blinken was the American support during India's Covid challenge, especially the supply of oxygen and the drug, Remdesivir. "Good to meet in person my old friend Secretary Blinken. Detailed discussion on the global Covid challenge, focusing on expanded vaccine production capacity and reliable supply chains," Jaishankar said in the Twitter statement. "Expressed appreciation for the strong US support to India at this difficult time, especially oxygen and Remdesivir," the minister said. Meanwhile, US State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement issued in Washington that the two leaders reviewed recent efforts in the fight against COVID-19, including US assistance to India, and expressed appreciation for each country's support throughout the pandemic. Jaishankar and Blinken discussed "addressing the COVID-19 challenge and deepening the US-India comprehensive global strategic partnership,” Price said. During the meeting, Blinken reaffirmed India's important role when it comes to the climate crisis and as a leading partner in the Indo-Pacific, he said. "They also discussed ways to deepen cooperation in multilateral fora, including at the UN Security Council and as a G7 guest country," Price said, adding that the two leaders looked forward to continue the US-India cooperation on the full range of bilateral and global issues. Earlier, Jaishankar described it as a very good meeting. "Among the many subjects we discussed was first and foremost the strong support we are getting from the United States on dealing with the COVID situation. We are very, very appreciative of that," he told reporters in a joint appearance with Blinken in London. "We also discussed how our collaboration could help globally in expanding vaccination capabilities," he said after their bilateral meeting. In his brief remarks, Blinken recognised the contribution of India when the United States was facing the COVID-19 crisis. "We remember so well when India came to our assistance in the early days of Covid in a very important and powerful way," Blinken said. "We are joined in this fight together and determined to do everything we can to help," he added. (With inputs from agencies)

Jaishankar meets Blinken, thanks him for support in fight against Covid  

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals.&nbsp;

"It is quite obvious to everyone that the situation in India is extremely serious," Dr Fauci, who is considered one of the world's top infectious disease specialists, said in an interview.&nbsp;

"When you have so many people getting infected, the lack of the capability to take adequate care of everyone; when you have shortages of hospital beds and oxygen and shortages of supplies, that really becomes a very desperate situation. Which is the reason why we feel it's important for the rest of the world to help out, to the extent they can," Dr Fauci said.&nbsp;

Keeping a close tab on developments in India, given that US President Joe Biden has geared up the administration to help India, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said there are certain things that India can do immediately, mid-term and long-term basis.&nbsp;

"First of all right now, they should start getting as many people vaccinated as they possibly can, with both the vaccines that they develop themselves in India as well as supplies of vaccines that they may be able to procure from other suppliers, be that the United States, be that Russia, whatever country is willing whenever companies are willing to supply vaccine," Dr Fauci said.&nbsp;

However, getting someone 'vaccinated now' does not solve today's problem, he noted, adding that it helps prevent a problem several weeks from now. &nbsp;

"But the solution immediately right now is, and I know India is already doing it, so I'm not telling you something that you are not already doing. A few days ago, I recommended and I believe at least parts of India are doing it, that you shut down the country in lockdown," he said. &nbsp;

"Because other countries, including for example what China did last year, what Australia did when they had an outbreak, what New Zealand did, what other countries did is to completely lock down for a relatively limited period of time. You don't have to lock down for six months. You can lock down for a few weeks. Because when you walk down, it is well known, with the experience of other countries that locking down, definitely interferes with the dynamics of the viral outbreak and you could interfere with the continuity and the transmission of infection," Dr Fauci said. &nbsp;

He also recommended taking the help of the armed forces to immediately build makeshift field hospitals.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals.

Expressing concern over surging coronavirus cases in India, America's top public health expert and White House Chief Medical Adviser Dr Anthony Fauci on Monday recommended a nationwide lockdown, massive vaccination drive and the construction of a large number of makeshift hospitals. "It is quite obvious to everyone that the situation in India is extremely serious," Dr Fauci, who is considered one of the world's top infectious disease specialists, said in an interview. "When you have so many people getting infected, the lack of the capability to take adequate care of everyone; when you have shortages of hospital beds and oxygen and shortages of supplies, that really becomes a very desperate situation. Which is the reason why we feel it's important for the rest of the world to help out, to the extent they can," Dr Fauci said. Keeping a close tab on developments in India, given that US President Joe Biden has geared up the administration to help India, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases said there are certain things that India can do immediately, mid-term and long-term basis. "First of all right now, they should start getting as many people vaccinated as they possibly can, with both the vaccines that they develop themselves in India as well as supplies of vaccines that they may be able to procure from other suppliers, be that the United States, be that Russia, whatever country is willing whenever companies are willing to supply vaccine," Dr Fauci said. However, getting someone 'vaccinated now' does not solve today's problem, he noted, adding that it helps prevent a problem several weeks from now. "But the solution immediately right now is, and I know India is already doing it, so I'm not telling you something that you are not already doing. A few days ago, I recommended and I believe at least parts of India are doing it, that you shut down the country in lockdown," he said. "Because other countries, including for example what China did last year, what Australia did when they had an outbreak, what New Zealand did, what other countries did is to completely lock down for a relatively limited period of time. You don't have to lock down for six months. You can lock down for a few weeks. Because when you walk down, it is well known, with the experience of other countries that locking down, definitely interferes with the dynamics of the viral outbreak and you could interfere with the continuity and the transmission of infection," Dr Fauci said. He also recommended taking the help of the armed forces to immediately build makeshift field hospitals. (With inputs from agencies)

Fauci's advice to India: Clamp nationwide lockdown, start massive vaccination

US Air Force flights that were scheduled to leave for India with essential life-saving supplies have been delayed till Wednesday due to maintenance issues, the Pentagon said on Monday.&nbsp;

"We just received word from USTRANSCOM that the flights for India are delayed until at least Wednesday due to maintenance issues", a Pentagon spokesperson said. &nbsp;

So far, only two US Air Force flights have landed in India.&nbsp;

Three US Air Force C-5 Super Galaxies and one C-17 Globemaster were scheduled to leave for India on Monday to deliver critical supplies amid a surge in coronavirus cases there. &nbsp;

Officials, however, did not say how this would impact the emergency aid supplies to India, in particular life-saving oxygen cylinders and concentrators.&nbsp;

Earlier in the day, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters that the US will continue to fly its planes with healthcare supplies for India, which has faced one of the worst outbreaks of COVID-19 in the world.&nbsp;

Three US Air Force C-5 Super Galaxies and one C-17 Globemaster are continuing to deliver critical healthcare supplies to India, which is experiencing one of the worst outbreaks of COVID-19, the Pentagon said. &nbsp;

"We continue to assist the government and the people of India as they continue to struggle with their Covid outbreak," Kirby said. &nbsp;

US Transportation Command and its components continue to demonstrate their capability to provide immediate assistance to a partner nation, he said.&nbsp;

The United States will continue to assess the situation, he said. &nbsp;

"We'll stay in touch with our counterparts in India, should there be a need for additional help. The (defence) secretary was very clear in speaking to his counterpart in India that we'll continue to do whatever we can to help," Kirby said.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, Senator Amy Klobuchar said the tragic crisis in India is a reminder that "we can only beat COVID-19 if we beat it everywhere". &nbsp;

The United States, she said, "is stepping up and providing relief and aid to our ally in this time of tremendous and heart-breaking need".&nbsp;

Congressman Alan Lowenthal said the Biden Administration has taken early positive steps but the scale of the tragedy in India is simply unbearable. &nbsp;

"We must do more to facilitate access to vaccines. We have a duty to save lives and to reduce the risk of terrifying new variants," he said.&nbsp;

"The Covid crisis in India is heartbreaking and could have huge implications for the rest of the world. The fight against this pandemic is a global one and we must do our part to help combat this surge and save lives," Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton said in a tweet. &nbsp;

"India is in crisis. President Biden's decision to send supplies and vaccine doses to India is a necessary one. But we must also eliminate vaccine patents and work to expand vaccine production and availability globally. We must work to save lives everywhere," Congresswoman Cori Bush tweeted.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

US Air Force flights that were scheduled to leave for India with essential life-saving supplies have been delayed till Wednesday due to maintenance issues, the Pentagon said on Monday.

US Air Force flights that were scheduled to leave for India with essential life-saving supplies have been delayed till Wednesday due to maintenance issues, the Pentagon said on Monday. "We just received word from USTRANSCOM that the flights for India are delayed until at least Wednesday due to maintenance issues", a Pentagon spokesperson said. So far, only two US Air Force flights have landed in India. Three US Air Force C-5 Super Galaxies and one C-17 Globemaster were scheduled to leave for India on Monday to deliver critical supplies amid a surge in coronavirus cases there. Officials, however, did not say how this would impact the emergency aid supplies to India, in particular life-saving oxygen cylinders and concentrators. Earlier in the day, Pentagon Press Secretary John Kirby told reporters that the US will continue to fly its planes with healthcare supplies for India, which has faced one of the worst outbreaks of COVID-19 in the world. Three US Air Force C-5 Super Galaxies and one C-17 Globemaster are continuing to deliver critical healthcare supplies to India, which is experiencing one of the worst outbreaks of COVID-19, the Pentagon said. "We continue to assist the government and the people of India as they continue to struggle with their Covid outbreak," Kirby said. US Transportation Command and its components continue to demonstrate their capability to provide immediate assistance to a partner nation, he said. The United States will continue to assess the situation, he said. "We'll stay in touch with our counterparts in India, should there be a need for additional help. The (defence) secretary was very clear in speaking to his counterpart in India that we'll continue to do whatever we can to help," Kirby said. Meanwhile, Senator Amy Klobuchar said the tragic crisis in India is a reminder that "we can only beat COVID-19 if we beat it everywhere". The United States, she said, "is stepping up and providing relief and aid to our ally in this time of tremendous and heart-breaking need". Congressman Alan Lowenthal said the Biden Administration has taken early positive steps but the scale of the tragedy in India is simply unbearable. "We must do more to facilitate access to vaccines. We have a duty to save lives and to reduce the risk of terrifying new variants," he said. "The Covid crisis in India is heartbreaking and could have huge implications for the rest of the world. The fight against this pandemic is a global one and we must do our part to help combat this surge and save lives," Congresswoman Jennifer Wexton said in a tweet. "India is in crisis. President Biden's decision to send supplies and vaccine doses to India is a necessary one. But we must also eliminate vaccine patents and work to expand vaccine production and availability globally. We must work to save lives everywhere," Congresswoman Cori Bush tweeted. (With inputs from agencies)

Covid: US flights with medical supplies for India delayed till Wednesday  

Two Iraqi TV shows, which sparked outrage by pranking celebrities with fake suicide vests and staged kidnappings, have been suspended.&nbsp;

The regulators said that the programmes, Tony's Bullet and Raslan's Shooting, breached the broadcast rules.&nbsp;

In one episode of Raslan's Shooting, an actress passed out in fear after having fake explosives strapped to her. Given the constant threat of militant violence in Iraq, viewers criticised the shows as cruel and tone-deaf.&nbsp;

Islamic State, which has lost its territory in Iraq, continues to attack civilians and the military.&nbsp;

Another episode of Raslan's Shooting showed Iraqi international footballer Alaa Mhawi blindfolded and begging for his life.&nbsp;

Responding to criticism last month, one of the show's writers, Dargham Abu Rghif, said, "The scenes are harsh but... if IS [Islamic State] had won, artists would have had a far harder life, and all Iraqis too," reported AFP.&nbsp;

Especially during the month of Ramzan, prank shows are popular throughout the Arab world. Broadcasters often commission special programmes to draw audiences in as they break their fast in the evening.&nbsp;

For going too far, a most-watched show by Egyptian Ramez Galal, has also faced criticism. In one edition he tricked celebrities into believing they were on a sinking ship, surrounded by floating body parts and an approaching shark. &nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) &nbsp;

Two Iraqi TV shows, which sparked outrage by pranking celebrities with fake suicide vests and staged kidnappings, have been suspended. The regulators said that the programmes, Tony's Bullet and Raslan's Shooting, breached the broadcast rules.

Two Iraqi TV shows, which sparked outrage by pranking celebrities with fake suicide vests and staged kidnappings, have been suspended. The regulators said that the programmes, Tony's Bullet and Raslan's Shooting, breached the broadcast rules. In one episode of Raslan's Shooting, an actress passed out in fear after having fake explosives strapped to her. Given the constant threat of militant violence in Iraq, viewers criticised the shows as cruel and tone-deaf. Islamic State, which has lost its territory in Iraq, continues to attack civilians and the military. Another episode of Raslan's Shooting showed Iraqi international footballer Alaa Mhawi blindfolded and begging for his life. Responding to criticism last month, one of the show's writers, Dargham Abu Rghif, said, "The scenes are harsh but... if IS [Islamic State] had won, artists would have had a far harder life, and all Iraqis too," reported AFP. Especially during the month of Ramzan, prank shows are popular throughout the Arab world. Broadcasters often commission special programmes to draw audiences in as they break their fast in the evening. For going too far, a most-watched show by Egyptian Ramez Galal, has also faced criticism. In one edition he tricked celebrities into believing they were on a sinking ship, surrounded by floating body parts and an approaching shark. (With inputs from agencies)

Iraq bans terror prank television shows 

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Zee News Rajasthan

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Gandharv Walia

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