<p>Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was granted a one-day exemption from appearance in the Toshakhana case. According to a report by ARY News on Saturday (July 22), Khan, the chairperson of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), would now appear before a district and sessions court in Islamabad on Monday (July 24). The report said on Saturday that Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Humayun Dilawar heard the case, Amjad Pervaiz represented the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and Barrister Gohar Ali appeared as Imran’s counsel.</p>

<p>During the hearing, Khan's counsel filed a request seeking an exemption for his client from attending Saturday’s hearing and its adjournment till Monday. However, Pervaiz objected by saying that no solid reasons were mentioned in the exemption plea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pervaiz requested the court to issue directives to ensure Khan's appearance in court. “Will the suspect appear in court on Monday?” the judge asked the former prime minister's counsel.</p>

<p>Gohar Ali replied that Khan would appear before the supreme court in another case on Monday. The ADSJ then said that Khan could appear in the sessions court after appearing in the Supreme Court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Toshakhana case is related to the allegations levelled by the ruling government that Khan failed to share details of the gifts he retained from the Toshaskhana during his tenure as prime minister. In March, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) launched an investigation against Khan in the case.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Khan's bail was extended in three cases regarding violence outside the Federal Judicial Complex (FJC) and the Islamabad High Court (IHC) until Wednesday (July 26). In the last proceedings, the court issued bailable arrest warrants for Khan and summoned him on Wednesday.&nbsp;</p>

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Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was granted a one-day exemption from appearance in the Toshakhana case. According to a report by ARY News on Saturday (July 22), Khan, the chairperson of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), would now appear before a district and sessions court in Islamabad on Monday (July 24).

Former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan was granted a one-day exemption from appearance in the Toshakhana case. According to a report by ARY News on Saturday (July 22), Khan, the chairperson of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), would now appear before a district and sessions court in Islamabad on Monday (July 24). The report said on Saturday that Additional District and Sessions Judge (ADSJ) Humayun Dilawar heard the case, Amjad Pervaiz represented the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) and Barrister Gohar Ali appeared as Imran’s counsel. During the hearing, Khan's counsel filed a request seeking an exemption for his client from attending Saturday’s hearing and its adjournment till Monday. However, Pervaiz objected by saying that no solid reasons were mentioned in the exemption plea. Pervaiz requested the court to issue directives to ensure Khan's appearance in court. “Will the suspect appear in court on Monday?” the judge asked the former prime minister's counsel. Gohar Ali replied that Khan would appear before the supreme court in another case on Monday. The ADSJ then said that Khan could appear in the sessions court after appearing in the Supreme Court. The Toshakhana case is related to the allegations levelled by the ruling government that Khan failed to share details of the gifts he retained from the Toshaskhana during his tenure as prime minister. In March, the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) launched an investigation against Khan in the case. Meanwhile, Khan's bail was extended in three cases regarding violence outside the Federal Judicial Complex (FJC) and the Islamabad High Court (IHC) until Wednesday (July 26). In the last proceedings, the court issued bailable arrest warrants for Khan and summoned him on Wednesday. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Toshakhana case: Ex-Pakistan PM Imran Khan granted one-day exemption from appearance

<p>A businessman from Maharashtra's Nagpur lost a staggering $7 million (around Rs 58 crore) in online gambling. According to a report by the news agency PTI on Sunday (July 23), a police official said that the investigation on Saturday led to a suspect bookie and the recovery of $1.7 million (around Rs 14 crore) along with four kilogrammes of gold biscuits.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The official said that the accused, identified as Anant alias Sontu Navratan Jain, fled just before cops raided his residence in Gondia city, which is 160 kilometres away from Nagpur. Police suspect that Jain fled to Dubai.&nbsp;</p>

<p>According to Nagpur's Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Jain convinced the businessman to explore online gambling as a lucrative avenue for earning profits. "Initially hesitant, the businessman eventually succumbed to Jain's persuasion and transferred Rs 8 lakh ($9,776) through a hawala merchant."</p>

<p>"Jain provided the businessman with a link on WhatsApp to open an online gambling account. The businessman found Rs 8 lakh deposited in the account and he began gambling," Kumar said.</p>

<p>"After initial success, the businessman's fortunes took a drastic downturn as he lost a whopping Rs 58 crore while winning around Rs 5 crore," he added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The Nagpur top cop also said that the businessman grew suspicious as he lost and demanded his money back, but Jain refused.</p>

<p>"The businessman lodged a complaint with the cyber police, leading to the registration of a case of fraud under the Indian Penal Code. Police raided Jain's residence in Gondia. The operation resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of evidence, including ₹14 crore cash and four kg gold biscuits," Kumar also said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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A businessman from Maharashtra's Nagpur lost a staggering $7 million (around Rs 58 crore) in online gambling. According to a report by the news agency PTI on Sunday (July 23), a police official said that the investigation on Saturday led to a suspect bookie and the recovery of $1.

A businessman from Maharashtra's Nagpur lost a staggering $7 million (around Rs 58 crore) in online gambling. According to a report by the news agency PTI on Sunday (July 23), a police official said that the investigation on Saturday led to a suspect bookie and the recovery of $1.7 million (around Rs 14 crore) along with four kilogrammes of gold biscuits. The official said that the accused, identified as Anant alias Sontu Navratan Jain, fled just before cops raided his residence in Gondia city, which is 160 kilometres away from Nagpur. Police suspect that Jain fled to Dubai. According to Nagpur's Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar, Jain convinced the businessman to explore online gambling as a lucrative avenue for earning profits. "Initially hesitant, the businessman eventually succumbed to Jain's persuasion and transferred Rs 8 lakh ($9,776) through a hawala merchant." "Jain provided the businessman with a link on WhatsApp to open an online gambling account. The businessman found Rs 8 lakh deposited in the account and he began gambling," Kumar said. "After initial success, the businessman's fortunes took a drastic downturn as he lost a whopping Rs 58 crore while winning around Rs 5 crore," he added. The Nagpur top cop also said that the businessman grew suspicious as he lost and demanded his money back, but Jain refused. "The businessman lodged a complaint with the cyber police, leading to the registration of a case of fraud under the Indian Penal Code. Police raided Jain's residence in Gondia. The operation resulted in the seizure of a substantial amount of evidence, including ₹14 crore cash and four kg gold biscuits," Kumar also said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Indian businessman loses $7 million while gambling online, suspect flees: Police

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<p>Violence continues in Ecuador as Manta city Mayor Agustin Intriago was assassinated on Sunday (July 23), and six inmates were killed in weekend clashes between gang members in a prison in Guayaquil city. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Mayor Intriago, 38, was inspecting public works in Manta when he was shot dead.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Addressing a press conference, regional police commander Edwin Noguera said that a gunman got out of a stolen truck and opened fire on Intriago, hitting him and a woman who also died. Security officials with Intriago returned fire and injured the driver of the truck who is now in police custody. Noguera said that the driver was a Venezuelan national without a prior criminal record.</p>

<p>However, the gunman escaped, the police official added. Reuters reported that it was not immediately clear why Intriago was killed, though police said that he had reported receiving threats.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Six killed in gang clashes in prison</strong></h2>

<p>At least six inmates were killed and 11 others were injured in weekend clashes between gang members in the Guayas No. 1 prison in the western city of Guayaquil. In a statement, the SNAI prison authority said that following the violence, inmates in 10 prisons across Ecuador including the one where the clashes happened went on a hunger strike.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch | Six killed in gang clashes in Ecuador prison, officials targeted</strong></p>

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<p>Due to the violence, security protocols were activated across the prison service, and security personnel are currently being held by gang members in five jails, the statement said, adding that officials appeared to be in good health and security forces were working to free them.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ecuador has seen an uptick in violent crime that the government says is driven by power struggles between criminal gangs over the drug trafficking trade. The country has become an important transit point for cocaine moving to Europe and the United States.</p>

<p>Since 2021, Ecuador has suffered a string of serious prison riots which have killed hundreds of inmates.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Violence continues in Ecuador as Manta city Mayor Agustin Intriago was assassinated on Sunday (July 23), and six inmates were killed in weekend clashes between gang members in a prison in Guayaquil city.

Violence continues in Ecuador as Manta city Mayor Agustin Intriago was assassinated on Sunday (July 23), and six inmates were killed in weekend clashes between gang members in a prison in Guayaquil city. According to a report by the news agency Reuters, Mayor Intriago, 38, was inspecting public works in Manta when he was shot dead. Addressing a press conference, regional police commander Edwin Noguera said that a gunman got out of a stolen truck and opened fire on Intriago, hitting him and a woman who also died. Security officials with Intriago returned fire and injured the driver of the truck who is now in police custody. Noguera said that the driver was a Venezuelan national without a prior criminal record. However, the gunman escaped, the police official added. Reuters reported that it was not immediately clear why Intriago was killed, though police said that he had reported receiving threats. Six killed in gang clashes in prison At least six inmates were killed and 11 others were injured in weekend clashes between gang members in the Guayas No. 1 prison in the western city of Guayaquil. In a statement, the SNAI prison authority said that following the violence, inmates in 10 prisons across Ecuador including the one where the clashes happened went on a hunger strike. Watch | Six killed in gang clashes in Ecuador prison, officials targeted × Due to the violence, security protocols were activated across the prison service, and security personnel are currently being held by gang members in five jails, the statement said, adding that officials appeared to be in good health and security forces were working to free them. Ecuador has seen an uptick in violent crime that the government says is driven by power struggles between criminal gangs over the drug trafficking trade. The country has become an important transit point for cocaine moving to Europe and the United States. Since 2021, Ecuador has suffered a string of serious prison riots which have killed hundreds of inmates. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Violence in Ecuador continues: Mayor assassinated; six killed in prison gang clashes

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<p>United Nations (UN) Command's deputy commander Lieutenant General Andrew Harrison said on Monday (July 24) that the command started conversations with North Korea over detained American soldier Private Travis King, who ran into the North last week across the Koreas’ heavily armed border. Lt Ge Harrison said the process started through communications lines set up at the Joint Security Area between the Koreas under the armistice agreement.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Harrison said the well-being of King remained the command's primary concern. The deputy commander added that he remained optimistic but pointed out that there was no way to know how the conversation with North Korea would proceed.</p>

<p>Harrison's remarks came two days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Washington had spoken to Pyongyang regarding the detention of King.&nbsp;</p>

<p>King, who was serving in South Korea, sprinted into North Korea on July 18 while on a tour of the Demilitarized Zone on the inter-Korean border.</p>

<h2><strong>North Korea ignoring US requests about King</strong></h2>

<p>Previously, American officials said that North Korea was ignoring their requests for information about him. And according to a report by the news agency Associated Press, analysts said that North Korea may wait weeks or even months to provide meaningful information about King to maximise leverage and add urgency to Washington's efforts to secure his release.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Some said that Pyongyang may try to wrest concessions from Washington, such as tying his release to the US cutting back its military activities with South Korea. There are also concerns that King might be used as a propaganda tool. The North Korean state media has remained silent about King.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The American soldier has already served detention in South Korea on charges of assault and damaging public property. He was due to fly back to his home base in Texas last week to face disciplinary action.&nbsp;</p>

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United Nations (UN) Command's deputy commander Lieutenant General Andrew Harrison said on Monday (July 24) that the command started conversations with North Korea over detained American soldier Private Travis King, who ran into the North last week across the Koreas’ heavily armed border.

United Nations (UN) Command's deputy commander Lieutenant General Andrew Harrison said on Monday (July 24) that the command started conversations with North Korea over detained American soldier Private Travis King, who ran into the North last week across the Koreas’ heavily armed border. Lt Ge Harrison said the process started through communications lines set up at the Joint Security Area between the Koreas under the armistice agreement. Harrison said the well-being of King remained the command's primary concern. The deputy commander added that he remained optimistic but pointed out that there was no way to know how the conversation with North Korea would proceed. Harrison's remarks came two days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that Washington had spoken to Pyongyang regarding the detention of King. King, who was serving in South Korea, sprinted into North Korea on July 18 while on a tour of the Demilitarized Zone on the inter-Korean border. North Korea ignoring US requests about King Previously, American officials said that North Korea was ignoring their requests for information about him. And according to a report by the news agency Associated Press, analysts said that North Korea may wait weeks or even months to provide meaningful information about King to maximise leverage and add urgency to Washington's efforts to secure his release. Some said that Pyongyang may try to wrest concessions from Washington, such as tying his release to the US cutting back its military activities with South Korea. There are also concerns that King might be used as a propaganda tool. The North Korean state media has remained silent about King. The American soldier has already served detention in South Korea on charges of assault and damaging public property. He was due to fly back to his home base in Texas last week to face disciplinary action. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

UN communicating with North Korea over detained American soldier Travis King

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<p>Iranian authorities late Saturday (July 22) banned a film festival that had put out a publicity poster featuring an actress not wearing the hijab. According to a report by the state news agency IRNA, "The culture minister has personally issued an order to ban the 13th edition of the ISFA Film Festival, after using a photo of a woman without a hijab on its poster in violation of the law."</p>

<p>The ban comes following the Iranian Short Film Association (ISFA) releasing a poster for its upcoming Short Film Festival featuring actress Susan Taslimi in the 1982 film "The Death of Yazdguerd".</p>

<p>The festival was due to be held in September.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Wearing a hijab has been compulsory for all Iranian women since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. However, since September last year, women have flouted the dress code following protests triggered by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was arrested over an alleged violation of the dress code.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier in July, the police said that patrols had been relaunched to catch the increasing number of women ignoring the law.</p>

<h2><strong>Iranian actress sentenced to 2 years in prison for not wearing hijab</strong></h2>

<p>Local media reported on <strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-actress-handed-jail-sentence-for-not-wearing-hijab-617566">Wednesday that prominent Iranian actress Afsaneh Bayegan </a></strong>was sentenced to two years in prison. "Afsaneh Bayegan was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended over five years, for wearing a hat and failing to comply with the hijab law," the Fars news agency reported.</p>

<p>An Iranian court, which handed over the sentence, also ordered Bayegan, 61, to make weekly visits to a psychological centre "to treat the mental disorder of having an anti-family personality" and to submit a health certificate after her treatment.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The court's verdict banned her from using social media and leaving the country for two years. The verdict came after the actress appeared at a movie ceremony without wearing a headscarf and then shared photos on social media.</p>

<p>Bayegan had also expressed support for the protests triggered by Amini's death.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Iranian authorities late Saturday (July 22) banned a film festival that had put out a publicity poster featuring an actress not wearing the hijab. According to a report by the state news agency IRNA, "The culture minister has personally issued an order to ban the 13th edition of the ISFA Film Festival, after using a photo of a woman without a hijab on its poster in violation of the law.

Iranian authorities late Saturday (July 22) banned a film festival that had put out a publicity poster featuring an actress not wearing the hijab. According to a report by the state news agency IRNA, "The culture minister has personally issued an order to ban the 13th edition of the ISFA Film Festival, after using a photo of a woman without a hijab on its poster in violation of the law." The ban comes following the Iranian Short Film Association (ISFA) releasing a poster for its upcoming Short Film Festival featuring actress Susan Taslimi in the 1982 film "The Death of Yazdguerd". The festival was due to be held in September. Wearing a hijab has been compulsory for all Iranian women since shortly after the 1979 Islamic revolution. However, since September last year, women have flouted the dress code following protests triggered by the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was arrested over an alleged violation of the dress code. Earlier in July, the police said that patrols had been relaunched to catch the increasing number of women ignoring the law. Iranian actress sentenced to 2 years in prison for not wearing hijab Local media reported on Wednesday that prominent Iranian actress Afsaneh Bayegan was sentenced to two years in prison. "Afsaneh Bayegan was sentenced to two years in prison, suspended over five years, for wearing a hat and failing to comply with the hijab law," the Fars news agency reported. An Iranian court, which handed over the sentence, also ordered Bayegan, 61, to make weekly visits to a psychological centre "to treat the mental disorder of having an anti-family personality" and to submit a health certificate after her treatment. The court's verdict banned her from using social media and leaving the country for two years. The verdict came after the actress appeared at a movie ceremony without wearing a headscarf and then shared photos on social media. Bayegan had also expressed support for the protests triggered by Amini's death. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Iran bans film festival that put out poster of actress without hijab

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<p>Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke&nbsp;into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow. When two guards and a police officer entered the residence, the man, who was heavily armed, held them at gunpoint.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The negotiations with the attacker lasted for hours. The man claimed he came from the front lines in Ukraine and was driven by God to march on the Kremlin. He refused to surrender, fired at special forces and was killed when they stormed the house.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who is the attacker?</strong></h2>

<p>According to Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, the attacker was identified as Vyacheslav Chernenko, a 35-year-old resident of the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk. It is not yet clear if Chernenko fought in the Ukraine war.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Istra administrator, meanwhile, said the attacker was mentally unstable.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Who was the owner of the residence?</strong></h2>

<p>As per the report, the residence that Chernenko broke into belonged to Viktor Yanukovych, the former Moscow-friendly president of Ukraine. It had been put up for sale by its current owner, who was overseas when the incident happened.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Putin meets Lukashenko</h2>

<p>In other news from the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko for talks in St Petersburg on Sunday. Putin said that Ukraine's counteroffensive had failed.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"There is no counteroffensive," Russian news agencies quoted Lukashenko as saying. To this, Putin replied, "It exists, but it has failed."</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow.

Russian special forces on Saturday (July 22) killed a man who broke into a private house in the suburbs of Moscow and fired at them. According to a report by the news agency Associated Press, the assailant was spotted by guards after he broke into an unoccupied house located in an elite village in Istra, about 45 kilometres west of Moscow. When two guards and a police officer entered the residence, the man, who was heavily armed, held them at gunpoint. The negotiations with the attacker lasted for hours. The man claimed he came from the front lines in Ukraine and was driven by God to march on the Kremlin. He refused to surrender, fired at special forces and was killed when they stormed the house. Who is the attacker? According to Russian lawmaker Alexander Khinshtein, the attacker was identified as Vyacheslav Chernenko, a 35-year-old resident of the Siberian city of Krasnoyarsk. It is not yet clear if Chernenko fought in the Ukraine war. Istra administrator, meanwhile, said the attacker was mentally unstable. Who was the owner of the residence? As per the report, the residence that Chernenko broke into belonged to Viktor Yanukovych, the former Moscow-friendly president of Ukraine. It had been put up for sale by its current owner, who was overseas when the incident happened. Putin meets Lukashenko In other news from the Ukraine war, Russian President Vladimir Putin hosted his Belarusian counterpart Alexander Lukashenko for talks in St Petersburg on Sunday. Putin said that Ukraine's counteroffensive had failed. "There is no counteroffensive," Russian news agencies quoted Lukashenko as saying. To this, Putin replied, "It exists, but it has failed." (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Moscow: Russian special forces kill gunman who claimed he fought in Ukraine

<p>A control room of the Mumbai Police on Sunday (July 23) received a threat call, in which the caller informed that a tanker filled with RDX and two Pakistani nationals was going from Mumbai to Goa, the news agency ANI reported citing the police. The police said that the caller identified himself as Pandey.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Investigation is underway," the police added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Further details are awaited.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This threat comes just days after the police on Tuesday received a threat call for a likely bomb attack in Mumbai. According to a report by the Times of India, this was the 24th hoax call received by the police in the last six months.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Last week, the traffic police received a series of threat messages from an unidentified IP address informing them they were likely to carry out a 26/11-like terror attack. The message sender also said he would carry out the attack if Seema Haider did not return to her country Pakistan, the report added.&nbsp;</p>

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A control room of the Mumbai Police on Sunday (July 23) received a threat call, in which the caller informed that a tanker filled with RDX and two Pakistani nationals was going from Mumbai to Goa, the news agency ANI reported citing the police.

A control room of the Mumbai Police on Sunday (July 23) received a threat call, in which the caller informed that a tanker filled with RDX and two Pakistani nationals was going from Mumbai to Goa, the news agency ANI reported citing the police. The police said that the caller identified himself as Pandey. "Investigation is underway," the police added. Further details are awaited. This threat comes just days after the police on Tuesday received a threat call for a likely bomb attack in Mumbai. According to a report by the Times of India, this was the 24th hoax call received by the police in the last six months. Last week, the traffic police received a series of threat messages from an unidentified IP address informing them they were likely to carry out a 26/11-like terror attack. The message sender also said he would carry out the attack if Seema Haider did not return to her country Pakistan, the report added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Mumbai police receive call about RDX-laden tanker going from city to Goa with two Pak nationals

<p>A student of the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has invented an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled device that helps people to converse in a natural language with machines, AI assistants, services, and other people without any voice. People don't have to open their mouths and don't have to make any externally observable movements. They can simply converse articulating words internally.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The device, named AlterEgo has been developed by Arnav Kapur, a resident of India's national capital Delhi who is currently a student of Media Arts and Sciences at the MIT Media Lab.</p>

<p>As per the MIT Media Lab's website, AlterEgo captures peripheral neural signals when internal speech articulators are volitionally and neurologically activated, during a user's internal articulation of words.</p>

<p>"This enables a user to transmit and receive streams of information to and from a computing device or any other person without any observable action, in discretion, without unplugging the user from her environment, without invading the user's privacy," the website reads.&nbsp;</p>

<p>A viral video shows Kapur wearing the device, and answering questions in an interview. The interviewer asks Kapur questions and the MIT student responds without uttering a single word. "You have the entire internet in your head," the interviewer said.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Here's a look at the video:&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>The website also states that the primary focus of AlterEgo is to help support communication for people with speech disorders including conditions like ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and MS (multiple sclerosis).</p>

<p>"Beyond that, the system has the potential to seamlessly integrate humans and computers—such that computing, the Internet, and AI would weave into our daily life as a "second self" and augment our cognition and abilities."</p>

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A student of the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has invented an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled device that helps people to converse in a natural language with machines, AI assistants, services, and other people without any voice.

A student of the prestigious Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) has invented an artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled device that helps people to converse in a natural language with machines, AI assistants, services, and other people without any voice. People don't have to open their mouths and don't have to make any externally observable movements. They can simply converse articulating words internally. The device, named AlterEgo has been developed by Arnav Kapur, a resident of India's national capital Delhi who is currently a student of Media Arts and Sciences at the MIT Media Lab. As per the MIT Media Lab's website, AlterEgo captures peripheral neural signals when internal speech articulators are volitionally and neurologically activated, during a user's internal articulation of words. "This enables a user to transmit and receive streams of information to and from a computing device or any other person without any observable action, in discretion, without unplugging the user from her environment, without invading the user's privacy," the website reads. A viral video shows Kapur wearing the device, and answering questions in an interview. The interviewer asks Kapur questions and the MIT student responds without uttering a single word. "You have the entire internet in your head," the interviewer said. Here's a look at the video: View this post on Instagram A post shared by Business | Motivation | Technology (@wealth) × The website also states that the primary focus of AlterEgo is to help support communication for people with speech disorders including conditions like ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis) and MS (multiple sclerosis). "Beyond that, the system has the potential to seamlessly integrate humans and computers—such that computing, the Internet, and AI would weave into our daily life as a "second self" and augment our cognition and abilities." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

MIT student from India develops device that helps you converse without voice

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21)&nbsp;the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.&nbsp;"This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," President Zelensky said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Korea fired&nbsp;several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Saturday. The launches&nbsp;occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT).&nbsp;</p>

<p>In other news, former United States president Donald Trump would face trial in the&nbsp;Mar-a-Lago classified document case.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more:</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-collision-course-expands-as-zelensky-calls-crimea-bridge-legitimate-military-target-618302"><strong>Russia-Ukraine collision course expands as Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target'</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/22/368700-untitled-design-2023-07-22t080634418.png?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.&nbsp;On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-fires-cruise-missiles-into-sea-amid-silence-on-us-soldiers-border-crossing-618298"><strong>North Korea fires cruise missiles into sea amid silence on US soldier's border crossing</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/22/368698-the-battle-for-kyiv-59.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated&nbsp;on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/classified-documents-case-trump-to-face-trial-in-the-thick-of-2024-us-elections-618309"><strong>Classified documents case: Trump's threat on being imprisoned in spotlight after release of trial date</strong></a></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/06/14/359381-1.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage.</p>

<p><strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/in-a-first-president-biden-chooses-female-admiral-to-lead-us-navy-618286">In a first, President Biden chooses female admiral to lead US Navy</a></strong></p>

<p><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/07/22/368691-the-battle-for-kyiv-57.jpg?imwidth=1920" /></p>

<p>President Joe Biden made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing his nomination of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to become the head of the US Navy. If confirmed, Admiral Franchetti will become the first woman to hold this esteemed position and also serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the US military.<br />
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<p><strong>Watch | Sharks react to cocaine in a similar fashion like humans: Study</strong></p>

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21) the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday (July 21) the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. "This is the route used to feed the war with ammunition and this is being done on a daily basis. And it militarises the Crimean peninsula," President Zelensky said. North Korea fired several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula, South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said on Saturday. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT). In other news, former United States president Donald Trump would face trial in the Mar-a-Lago classified document case. Click on the headlines to read more: Russia-Ukraine collision course expands as Zelensky calls Crimea bridge 'legitimate military target' Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Friday (July 21) said that the bridge which links Russia to the Crimea peninsula "brings war not peace" and hence it is a military target. On Monday, two civilians were killed and a part of the road bridge was out of service after explosions took place on the Crimea bridge. North Korea fires cruise missiles into sea amid silence on US soldier's border crossing South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff stated on Saturday (July 21), that North Korea fired "several cruise missiles" into the Yellow Sea, situated between China and the Korean peninsula. The launches occurred at approximately 4 am (1900 GMT), intensifying already strained relations between the two Koreas. Classified documents case: Trump's threat on being imprisoned in spotlight after release of trial date The trial against former US president and Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump in Mar-a-Lago classified document case will take place in the thick of US presidential elections next year. The supposed trial may very well put Trump into prison, sections of US media have reported, following which Trump's purported threat about what may happen if he is imprisoned has attained centerstage. In a first, President Biden chooses female admiral to lead US Navy President Joe Biden made a groundbreaking announcement, revealing his nomination of Admiral Lisa Franchetti to become the head of the US Navy. If confirmed, Admiral Franchetti will become the first woman to hold this esteemed position and also serve on the Joint Chiefs of Staff, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in the US military. Watch | Sharks react to cocaine in a similar fashion like humans: Study ×

Morning brief: Ukraine war updates, North Korea fires cruise missiles into Yellow Sea, and more

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<p>Pakistan's Aviation Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique said on Friday (July 21) that the Islamabad airport would be outsourced for 15 years to improve its operational activities, according to a report by Geo News. Aviation Minister Rafique told the National Assembly that the move did not equate to privatisation, but instead, it aimed to bring in proficient operators to enhance airport operations.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Rafique added that runaway and navigation operations would not be included in the outsourcing process. The minister emphasised that open competitive bidding would be ensured, allowing the best bidder to be given the opportunity to operate the airport, and the process would be profit oriented which would ultimately benefit the national exchequer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Twelve to 13 companies showed interest in participating in the bidding process, Rafique also said, adding the bidding would be transparent.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Aviation minister stresses need to restructure PIA</strong></h2>

<p>On Friday, Khawaja Saad Rafique also stressed the need to restructure Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to address the substantial deficit, which reached 80 billion Pakistani Rupees (around $279 million) this year. The minister asserted that no employees would be laid off, and all existing staff would retain their job security and privileges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The above developments come as Pakistan is battling an economic crisis with staggering inflation and depleting forex reserves. On July 12, Pakistan's central bank received $1.2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as the first tranche of a $3 billion bailout to stabilise the economy.</p>

<p>And a day later, the IMF said that its $3 billion bailout was aimed at "immediate efforts" and critical "steadfast policy implementation."</p>

<p>"The new program will anchor the authorities' immediate efforts to stabilize the economy with due protection for the most vulnerable, and also provide a framework for financing from multilateral and bilateral partners to support the Pakistan government's policies," IMF's Director of Communications Julie Kozack said.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Steadfast policy implementation is critical in the period ahead, this will be critical for the success of the program and, of course, ultimately to aid and support the people of Pakistan," Kozack added.&nbsp;</p>

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Pakistan's Aviation Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique said on Friday (July 21) that the Islamabad airport would be outsourced for 15 years to improve its operational activities, according to a report by Geo News.

Pakistan's Aviation Minister Khawaja Saad Rafique said on Friday (July 21) that the Islamabad airport would be outsourced for 15 years to improve its operational activities, according to a report by Geo News. Aviation Minister Rafique told the National Assembly that the move did not equate to privatisation, but instead, it aimed to bring in proficient operators to enhance airport operations. Rafique added that runaway and navigation operations would not be included in the outsourcing process. The minister emphasised that open competitive bidding would be ensured, allowing the best bidder to be given the opportunity to operate the airport, and the process would be profit oriented which would ultimately benefit the national exchequer. Twelve to 13 companies showed interest in participating in the bidding process, Rafique also said, adding the bidding would be transparent. Aviation minister stresses need to restructure PIA On Friday, Khawaja Saad Rafique also stressed the need to restructure Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) to address the substantial deficit, which reached 80 billion Pakistani Rupees (around $279 million) this year. The minister asserted that no employees would be laid off, and all existing staff would retain their job security and privileges. The above developments come as Pakistan is battling an economic crisis with staggering inflation and depleting forex reserves. On July 12, Pakistan's central bank received $1.2 billion from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) as the first tranche of a $3 billion bailout to stabilise the economy. And a day later, the IMF said that its $3 billion bailout was aimed at "immediate efforts" and critical "steadfast policy implementation." "The new program will anchor the authorities' immediate efforts to stabilize the economy with due protection for the most vulnerable, and also provide a framework for financing from multilateral and bilateral partners to support the Pakistan government's policies," IMF's Director of Communications Julie Kozack said. "Steadfast policy implementation is critical in the period ahead, this will be critical for the success of the program and, of course, ultimately to aid and support the people of Pakistan," Kozack added. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan: Islamabad airport to be outsourced for 15 years, says minister

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<p>US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (July 21) slammed the recent missile launches by North Korea and reiterated Washington's remark that it is ready to have negotiations with Pyongyang on the nuclear programme with no preconditions. Speaking during the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado, Blinken said, "We made clear going back to early in this administration that we were prepared to have negotiations with North Korea on the nuclear programme with no preconditions. We sent that message several times. Here’s the response we got: one missile launch after another."</p>

<p>Blinken said that he had a conversation with his Chinese counterparts, particularly what Beijing's role could and should be in helping bring North Korea to the table on its nuclear programme, helping advance a shared vision for denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"And what I’ve shared with Chinese counterparts is this: We believe that you have unique influence, and we hope that you will use it to get better cooperation from North Korea.," Blinken added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"But if you can’t or if you won’t, then we’re going to have to continue to take steps that aren’t directed at China but that China probably won’t like because it goes to strengthening and shoring up not only our own defences but those of Korea and Japan – and a deepening of the work that all three of us are doing together," the US secretary of state further highlighted.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Blinken talks about America's partnership with South Korea, Japan</strong></h2>

<p>During the security forum, Blinken highlighted that America's partnership with South Korea and Japan had grown even stronger, even deeper, and the three countries took further steps to ensure "we could defend ourselves, defend our allies and partners, deter any aggression coming from North Korea."</p>

<p>"We’ve seen, I think, an extraordinary relationship develop over several administrations now on a trilateral basis among the United States, Japan, and Korea. That’s only gotten stronger. And everything that North Korea does and China’s inability to help us do something about it, we’ll continue to move things in that direction," Blinken added.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Concerned about Private King's well-being: Blinken</strong></h2>

<p>With US soldier Private Travis King disappearing in&nbsp;North Korea, Blinken said during Friday's forum that the government is concerned about his well-being.&nbsp;</p>

<p>"With regards to Private King, unfortunately, I don’t have any further information to share. We are very concerned, of course, about his well-being. We’d like to know his whereabouts. We’ve communicated to North Korea, seeking that information. I don’t have anything more at this point," he said.&nbsp;<br />
<br />
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US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (July 21) slammed the recent missile launches by North Korea and reiterated Washington's remark that it is ready to have negotiations with Pyongyang on the nuclear programme with no preconditions.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken on Friday (July 21) slammed the recent missile launches by North Korea and reiterated Washington's remark that it is ready to have negotiations with Pyongyang on the nuclear programme with no preconditions. Speaking during the Aspen Security Forum in Colorado, Blinken said, "We made clear going back to early in this administration that we were prepared to have negotiations with North Korea on the nuclear programme with no preconditions. We sent that message several times. Here’s the response we got: one missile launch after another." Blinken said that he had a conversation with his Chinese counterparts, particularly what Beijing's role could and should be in helping bring North Korea to the table on its nuclear programme, helping advance a shared vision for denuclearization on the Korean Peninsula. "And what I’ve shared with Chinese counterparts is this: We believe that you have unique influence, and we hope that you will use it to get better cooperation from North Korea.," Blinken added. "But if you can’t or if you won’t, then we’re going to have to continue to take steps that aren’t directed at China but that China probably won’t like because it goes to strengthening and shoring up not only our own defences but those of Korea and Japan – and a deepening of the work that all three of us are doing together," the US secretary of state further highlighted. Blinken talks about America's partnership with South Korea, Japan During the security forum, Blinken highlighted that America's partnership with South Korea and Japan had grown even stronger, even deeper, and the three countries took further steps to ensure "we could defend ourselves, defend our allies and partners, deter any aggression coming from North Korea." "We’ve seen, I think, an extraordinary relationship develop over several administrations now on a trilateral basis among the United States, Japan, and Korea. That’s only gotten stronger. And everything that North Korea does and China’s inability to help us do something about it, we’ll continue to move things in that direction," Blinken added. Concerned about Private King's well-being: Blinken With US soldier Private Travis King disappearing in North Korea, Blinken said during Friday's forum that the government is concerned about his well-being. "With regards to Private King, unfortunately, I don’t have any further information to share. We are very concerned, of course, about his well-being. We’d like to know his whereabouts. We’ve communicated to North Korea, seeking that information. I don’t have anything more at this point," he said. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Blinken calls upon China to halt North Korea's potential nuclear tyranny

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFuq7PwOVsLsh" /><meta charset="utf-8" /></p>

<p><meta name="uuid" content="uuidFuq7PwOVsLsh" /><meta charset="utf-8" />Greece on Saturday (July 22) faced its hottest July weekend in 50 years, and temperatures are forecast to go above 40 degrees Celsius. According to a report by the news agency AFP, ministries have advised people to work from home (WFH) where possible and not step outdoors unnecessarily. Panagiotis Giannopoulos, a meteorologist with state broadcaster ERT, said that temperatures in Athens would be above 40 degrees Celsius for six to seven days, through to the end of July.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The report said that on the central island of Evia, a 46-year-old man died due to heatstroke. The Chalkida Hospital said that the cause of the death appeared to be cardio-respiratory failure following exposure to high temperatures. Earlier, the national meteorological institute EMY reported temperatures of 41 degrees Celsius at Attica and temperatures in Thessalia could climb up to 44 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>79 forest fires reported across Greece</strong></h2>

<p>Authorities said on Saturday that firefighters were battling 79 forest fires across Greece. Vassilios Vathrakoyannis, a spokesperson from the fire fighting department, said that Greece would be on a state of alert across the weekend.</p>

<p>On Friday, Turkey said it was sending two firefighting aircraft to Greece. Meanwhile, the ministry of culture said that architectural attractions including World Heritage Site the Athens Acropolis will be shut during the hottest parts of the day through to Sunday.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Heatwave to expand in southern US</strong></h2>

<p>A record-breaking heatwave stretching across the southern United States was expected to expand in the coming days. The National Weather Service (NWS) said that across Southern US, about 80 million Americans will swelter in temperatures of 41 degrees Celsius and above this weekend. Phoenix, Arizona would be the worst affected.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Phoenix is surrounded by desert, and its 1.6 million residents are accustomed to brutal summer temperatures. However, this time, the heat wave is unprecedented in its length: it has already helped the city break its previous record of 18 straight days at or above 43 degrees Celsius.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em><br />
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Greece on Saturday (July 22) faced its hottest July weekend in 50 years, and temperatures are forecast to go above 40 degrees Celsius. According to a report by the news agency AFP, ministries have advised people to work from home (WFH) where possible and not step outdoors unnecessarily.

Greece on Saturday (July 22) faced its hottest July weekend in 50 years, and temperatures are forecast to go above 40 degrees Celsius. According to a report by the news agency AFP, ministries have advised people to work from home (WFH) where possible and not step outdoors unnecessarily. Panagiotis Giannopoulos, a meteorologist with state broadcaster ERT, said that temperatures in Athens would be above 40 degrees Celsius for six to seven days, through to the end of July. The report said that on the central island of Evia, a 46-year-old man died due to heatstroke. The Chalkida Hospital said that the cause of the death appeared to be cardio-respiratory failure following exposure to high temperatures. Earlier, the national meteorological institute EMY reported temperatures of 41 degrees Celsius at Attica and temperatures in Thessalia could climb up to 44 degrees Celsius. 79 forest fires reported across Greece Authorities said on Saturday that firefighters were battling 79 forest fires across Greece. Vassilios Vathrakoyannis, a spokesperson from the fire fighting department, said that Greece would be on a state of alert across the weekend. On Friday, Turkey said it was sending two firefighting aircraft to Greece. Meanwhile, the ministry of culture said that architectural attractions including World Heritage Site the Athens Acropolis will be shut during the hottest parts of the day through to Sunday. Heatwave to expand in southern US A record-breaking heatwave stretching across the southern United States was expected to expand in the coming days. The National Weather Service (NWS) said that across Southern US, about 80 million Americans will swelter in temperatures of 41 degrees Celsius and above this weekend. Phoenix, Arizona would be the worst affected. Phoenix is surrounded by desert, and its 1.6 million residents are accustomed to brutal summer temperatures. However, this time, the heat wave is unprecedented in its length: it has already helped the city break its previous record of 18 straight days at or above 43 degrees Celsius. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Climate crisis: Greece faces hottest July weekend in 50 yrs; heatwave to expand in US

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Zee News Rajasthan

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