As the clock ticks and hour of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic spaceflight launch draws nearer, the excitement is palpable around 70-year-old billionaire's travel to the edge of space. Branson has been one of the early pioneers who dreamt of commercial space travel when he founded his company Virgin Galactic in 2004.

Though at the time&nbsp;it was thought that commercial space travel would be normal with three to four years, it's&nbsp;better late than never as world looks on with bated breath 17 years after.

Although the exact time of the launch hasn't been made public, the reports suggest that the launch will take place at 1430 GMT. The launch is scheduled to take place from a spaceport in New Mexico.

Richard Branson will be aboard the space vehicle. Branson's official role is to evaluate the private astronaut experience to enhance the journey for future clients.&nbsp;

<h2>How will the launch take place</h2>

A massive carrier plane will take off from a horizontal runway, flown by two pilots, gaining altitude for about an hour.

Below this plane hangs the spaceship VSS Unity -- a SpaceShipTwo-class suborbital rocket-powered spaceplane -- with two more pilots and four passengers: Branson and three Virgin employees.

After climbing to 50,000 feet (15 kilometers), VSS Unity, which is about the size of a private jet, will be dropped and then ignite its rocket-powered engine to ascend at Mach 3 beyond the 50 miles (80 kilometers) of altitude considered the edge of space by US agencies.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/aim-for-stars-richard-bransons-journey-from-record-store-to-space-trip-397420">‘Aim for stars’: Richard Branson's journey from record store to space trip</a>

Once the rocket engine is cut off, passengers can unbuckle and experience a few minutes of weightlessness, while admiring the curvature of Earth from the ship's 17 windows.

After peaking at around 55 miles of altitude, the ship will re-enter the thick part of the atmosphere and glide back to the runway.

<h2>How to watch the Virgin Galactic spaceflight launch LIVE</h2>

The launch will livestreamed by the company. The live stream can be watched on the company's website (virginatlantic.com). The launch will also be live streamed on the company's Facebook, Twiter handles and Youtube channels.

(with inputs from agencies)

As the clock ticks and hour of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic spaceflight launch draws nearer, the excitement is palpable around 70-year-old billionaire's travel to the edge of space.

As the clock ticks and hour of Richard Branson's Virgin Galactic spaceflight launch draws nearer, the excitement is palpable around 70-year-old billionaire's travel to the edge of space. Branson has been one of the early pioneers who dreamt of commercial space travel when he founded his company Virgin Galactic in 2004. Though at the time it was thought that commercial space travel would be normal with three to four years, it's better late than never as world looks on with bated breath 17 years after. Although the exact time of the launch hasn't been made public, the reports suggest that the launch will take place at 1430 GMT. The launch is scheduled to take place from a spaceport in New Mexico. Richard Branson will be aboard the space vehicle. Branson's official role is to evaluate the private astronaut experience to enhance the journey for future clients. How will the launch take place A massive carrier plane will take off from a horizontal runway, flown by two pilots, gaining altitude for about an hour. Below this plane hangs the spaceship VSS Unity -- a SpaceShipTwo-class suborbital rocket-powered spaceplane -- with two more pilots and four passengers: Branson and three Virgin employees. After climbing to 50,000 feet (15 kilometers), VSS Unity, which is about the size of a private jet, will be dropped and then ignite its rocket-powered engine to ascend at Mach 3 beyond the 50 miles (80 kilometers) of altitude considered the edge of space by US agencies. Also Read | ‘Aim for stars’: Richard Branson's journey from record store to space trip Once the rocket engine is cut off, passengers can unbuckle and experience a few minutes of weightlessness, while admiring the curvature of Earth from the ship's 17 windows. After peaking at around 55 miles of altitude, the ship will re-enter the thick part of the atmosphere and glide back to the runway. How to watch the Virgin Galactic spaceflight launch LIVE The launch will livestreamed by the company. The live stream can be watched on the company's website (virginatlantic.com). The launch will also be live streamed on the company's Facebook, Twiter handles and Youtube channels. (with inputs from agencies)

Richard Branson Virgin Galactic spaceflight: Where to watch the launch LIVE

Armed civilians and Afghan forces on Sunday repelled Taliban attack in Afghanistan's northern Takhar province. The governor of the province said that heavy casualties were inflicted on the Taliban.

Taliban launched a massive offensive on Sunday morning to capture Taloqan city, the provincial capital of Takhar. The Taliban attack faced resistance from armed civilians and Afghan security forces. &nbsp;Governor Abdullah Qarluq said adding that 55 Taliban fighters were killed and 90 others wounded.

Reuters said that a video showed armed citizens and Afghan forces on the battlefield on the outskirts of of the city.&nbsp;

Taliban's gains in the northern part of Afghanistan have been dramatic. During Taliban's rule in late 90s and early 2000s, north Afghanistan was bastion of Northern Alliance. Taliban had found it hard to gain a foothold there.

However, the situation is different this time.

The Islamist insurgents have been advancing for weeks, an offensive that has accelerated as the United States pulled out of its main base, effectively ending its two-decade intervention. Taliban gains have been especially dramatic in northern provinces where they had long been kept at bay.

The United States, which toppled the Taliban for sheltering Osama bin Laden in 2001 and has since propped up the Kabul government, agreed under then-President Donald Trump last year to pull out its troops subject to Taliban security guarantees.

Talks between Afghan government and Taliban negotiators in Qatar have failed to make substantive progress, though the warring sides have been holding meetings in recent days.

(With inputs from agencies)

Armed civilians and Afghan forces on Sunday repelled Taliban attack in Afghanistan's northern Takhar province. The governor of the province said that heavy casualties were inflicted on the Taliban.

Armed civilians and Afghan forces on Sunday repelled Taliban attack in Afghanistan's northern Takhar province. The governor of the province said that heavy casualties were inflicted on the Taliban. Taliban launched a massive offensive on Sunday morning to capture Taloqan city, the provincial capital of Takhar. The Taliban attack faced resistance from armed civilians and Afghan security forces. Governor Abdullah Qarluq said adding that 55 Taliban fighters were killed and 90 others wounded. Reuters said that a video showed armed citizens and Afghan forces on the battlefield on the outskirts of of the city. Taliban's gains in the northern part of Afghanistan have been dramatic. During Taliban's rule in late 90s and early 2000s, north Afghanistan was bastion of Northern Alliance. Taliban had found it hard to gain a foothold there. However, the situation is different this time. The Islamist insurgents have been advancing for weeks, an offensive that has accelerated as the United States pulled out of its main base, effectively ending its two-decade intervention. Taliban gains have been especially dramatic in northern provinces where they had long been kept at bay. The United States, which toppled the Taliban for sheltering Osama bin Laden in 2001 and has since propped up the Kabul government, agreed under then-President Donald Trump last year to pull out its troops subject to Taliban security guarantees. Talks between Afghan government and Taliban negotiators in Qatar have failed to make substantive progress, though the warring sides have been holding meetings in recent days. (With inputs from agencies)

Armed civilians, Afghan forces inflict heavy casualties on Taliban in Takhar: Governor

All eyes are on Richard Branson as he prepares to go to space aboard VSS Unity SpaceShipTwo. The launch is due to take place on July 11 and Branson will be part of the crew that'll go to the edge of the space.

With this, Branson aims to give a fillip to the space travel market. But he is not the first rich guy to travel to space as a tourist.

That place is held by Dennis Tito, the US multimillionaire who became world's first paying space tourist in 2001. Tito had travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Russian Soyuz rocket. He reportedly shelled out a cool USD 20 million.

Tito still has fond memories of his space travel. In a quote to CNN, he said that he was "euphoric" when he travelled to the ISS, describing it as the "greatest moment" of his life. Nothing could beat that feeling, he said.

Richard Branson founded his company Virgin Galactic in 2004. At the time, it was thought that commercial space travel will be a common thing in 3-4 years.&nbsp;

17 years on and Branson is ready to fly to space himself. The launch will be streamed LIVE online.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/richard-branson-virgin-galactic-spaceflight-where-to-watch-the-launch-live-397416">Click here</a> to know how to watch the launch LIVE.

All eyes are on Richard Branson as he prepares to go to space aboard VSS Unity SpaceShipTwo. The launch is due to take place on July 11 and Branson will be part of the crew that'll go to the edge of the space.

All eyes are on Richard Branson as he prepares to go to space aboard VSS Unity SpaceShipTwo. The launch is due to take place on July 11 and Branson will be part of the crew that'll go to the edge of the space. With this, Branson aims to give a fillip to the space travel market. But he is not the first rich guy to travel to space as a tourist. That place is held by Dennis Tito, the US multimillionaire who became world's first paying space tourist in 2001. Tito had travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) aboard Russian Soyuz rocket. He reportedly shelled out a cool USD 20 million. Tito still has fond memories of his space travel. In a quote to CNN, he said that he was "euphoric" when he travelled to the ISS, describing it as the "greatest moment" of his life. Nothing could beat that feeling, he said. Richard Branson founded his company Virgin Galactic in 2004. At the time, it was thought that commercial space travel will be a common thing in 3-4 years. 17 years on and Branson is ready to fly to space himself. The launch will be streamed LIVE online. Click here to know how to watch the launch LIVE.

Richard Branson is not the first rich guy to travel to space, know who it was

An elderly couple from southern India has gone above and beyond the call of duty to fulfil their civic duties.&nbsp;

Since almost eleven years ago, Gangadhar Tilak Katnam and his wife Venkateshwari Katnam have been using their savings to cover these accidental hazards.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-gupta-brothers-from-india-landed-south-africas-ruling-party-in-its-biggest-crisis-397138">How Gupta brothers from India landed South Africa's ruling party in its biggest crisis</a>

Some years ago, Gangadhar Tilak Katnam,&nbsp;would complain to his local government and the police about potholes in the city roads, but to no avail.&nbsp;

Tilak says that the potholes caused many accidents. He kept trying to find an appropriate solution from the authorities, but when he was unable to do so, he filled them himself.&nbsp;

This elderly couple says that using&nbsp;a mixture of Bitumen and aggregate,&nbsp;they have filled up around two thousand potholes in the last eleven years. This has helped in&nbsp;preventing numerous accidents.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/staring-at-civil-war-how-bad-is-the-situation-in-afghanistan-397134">Staring at civil war: How bad is the situation in Afghanistan?</a>

Venkateshwari Katnam, 64, and her husband, Tilak Katnam, 73, routinely fill potholes with their own money, using their pensions to do so.&nbsp;

Damage to roads, potholes, and stoney irregularities along flyovers and highways are common in the country, and they become even worse during the monsoon, when waterlogging covers the potholes, leaving riders unaware.

An elderly couple from southern India has gone above and beyond the call of duty to fulfil their civic duties. Since almost eleven years ago, Gangadhar Tilak Katnam and his wife Venkateshwari Katnam have been using their savings to cover these accidental hazards.

An elderly couple from southern India has gone above and beyond the call of duty to fulfil their civic duties. Since almost eleven years ago, Gangadhar Tilak Katnam and his wife Venkateshwari Katnam have been using their savings to cover these accidental hazards. Also read | How Gupta brothers from India landed South Africa's ruling party in its biggest crisis Some years ago, Gangadhar Tilak Katnam, would complain to his local government and the police about potholes in the city roads, but to no avail. Tilak says that the potholes caused many accidents. He kept trying to find an appropriate solution from the authorities, but when he was unable to do so, he filled them himself. This elderly couple says that using a mixture of Bitumen and aggregate, they have filled up around two thousand potholes in the last eleven years. This has helped in preventing numerous accidents. Also read | Staring at civil war: How bad is the situation in Afghanistan? Venkateshwari Katnam, 64, and her husband, Tilak Katnam, 73, routinely fill potholes with their own money, using their pensions to do so. Damage to roads, potholes, and stoney irregularities along flyovers and highways are common in the country, and they become even worse during the monsoon, when waterlogging covers the potholes, leaving riders unaware.

Hyderabad elderly couple and their mission to save lives

As grim news unfolds in Florida following the Surfside building collapse, one small ray of heartwarming news has come forth.

As a "small piece of good news," the Mayor of Miami-Dade County Daniella Levine Cava reported that a cat owned by one of the residents has been found and returned to its family.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/florida-condo-collapse-israelis-fight-despair-while-aiding-survivors-395978/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The entire family is so happy to have been able to see Binx again, as the mayor put it, "thank you from the bottom of our hearts.".

The&nbsp;short-haired black cat&nbsp;named Binx made it out of the collapse and was found by rescue teams&nbsp;wandering nearby.

Binx belonged to&nbsp;a family living on the tower's ninth floor.&nbsp;

As more bodies were recovered and workers had lowered the pile of rubble to ground level, the confirmed death toll in the collapse of the Miami condominium tower climbed to 86.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/florida-building-collapse-bodies-of-paraguayan-first-ladys-kin-found-in-the-rubble-396936">Florida building collapse: Bodies of Paraguayan first lady’s kin found in the rubble</a>

The number is staggering and heartbreaking and affects us all on an extremely deep level, said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

The site where 62 bodies have been recovered has been dubbed the largest non-hurricane emergency response effort in Florida's history, says Levine Cava.&nbsp;

There are still 43 people listed as missing.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/rest-of-collapsed-florida-apartment-demolished-ahead-of-storm-search-and-rescue-to-resume-395845">Rest of collapsed Florida apartment demolished ahead of storm, search and rescue to resume</a>

Having clung to hope for two weeks, the authorities on Wednesday ended the rescue operation on June 24 in order to focus on searching for remains.

(With inputs from agencies)

As grim news unfolds in Florida following the Surfside building collapse, one small ray of heartwarming news has come forth. As a "small piece of good news," the Mayor of Miami-Dade County Daniella Levine Cava reported that a cat owned by one of the residents has been found and returned to its family.

As grim news unfolds in Florida following the Surfside building collapse, one small ray of heartwarming news has come forth. As a "small piece of good news," the Mayor of Miami-Dade County Daniella Levine Cava reported that a cat owned by one of the residents has been found and returned to its family. The entire family is so happy to have been able to see Binx again, as the mayor put it, "thank you from the bottom of our hearts.". The short-haired black cat named Binx made it out of the collapse and was found by rescue teams wandering nearby. Binx belonged to a family living on the tower's ninth floor. As more bodies were recovered and workers had lowered the pile of rubble to ground level, the confirmed death toll in the collapse of the Miami condominium tower climbed to 86. Also read | Florida building collapse: Bodies of Paraguayan first lady’s kin found in the rubble The number is staggering and heartbreaking and affects us all on an extremely deep level, said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. The site where 62 bodies have been recovered has been dubbed the largest non-hurricane emergency response effort in Florida's history, says Levine Cava. There are still 43 people listed as missing. Also read | Rest of collapsed Florida apartment demolished ahead of storm, search and rescue to resume Having clung to hope for two weeks, the authorities on Wednesday ended the rescue operation on June 24 in order to focus on searching for remains. (With inputs from agencies)

Florida building collapse finds its first survivor, a cat

"They riddled him with bullets, didn't let him say a word,"&nbsp;said slain Haiti President Jovenel Moise's widow, speaking up on his assassination that shocked the Caribbean nation.

It was Martine Moise's&nbsp; first public statements following the deadly attack on the leader. The first lady, who was rushed to US after being gravely wounded in the attack, asked the nation not to 'lose its way'.

"In the blink of an eye, the mercenaries entered my house and riddled my husband with bullets,"&nbsp;Martine Moise said in an audio message posted on Twitter, three days after her husband was shot and killed in their home.

"This act has no name because you have to be a limitless criminal to assassinate a president like Jovenel Moïse, without even giving him the chance to say a single word."

"Thank you, God, I am alive. I am alive but I have lost my husband Jovenel," she said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-president-jovenel-moise-assassinated-wife-injured-world-leaders-pay-tribute-396479">Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute</a>

Pradel Henriquez, Haiti's minister of culture and communications, confirmed the authenticity of the remarks to news agency, AFP.&nbsp;

Following the attack in the early hours of Wednesday, Martine Moise was rushed to a Haitian hospital, following which she had to be evacuated to Miami for treatment.&nbsp;

Reports said that 28 men surrounded the couple in their home, including 26 Colombians and two Haitian-Americans, and began firing.&nbsp;

Three of the assailants were killed, while 17 have been arrested. There are still a few at large, according to police. It's not clear why the attack occurred.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-says-26-colombians-two-haitian-americans-among-group-that-killed-president-396838">Haiti says 26 Colombians, two Haitian Americans among group that killed president</a>

Despite my tears, she said, "we cannot allow this country to derail." saying Moise's spilled blood must not be in vain.&nbsp;

Her husband's death has thrown Haiti in chaos, the poorest country in the Americas.

Amid deep uncertainty over its political future, the international community has called on the impoverished Caribbean country to go ahead with the presidential and legislative elections slated for later this year.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/haiti-asks-us-un-to-send-security-forces-to-stabilise-country-minister-397104">Haiti asks US, UN to send security forces to stabilise country: Minister</a>

Despite deep uncertainty about Haiti's political future, the international community says that the impoverished Caribbean country must hold its upcoming presidential and legislative elections.

Martine Moise assured her that she would not abandon her country and promised Haitians that soon she'll engage with them directly on Facebook.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

"They riddled him with bullets, didn't let him say a word," said slain Haiti President Jovenel Moise's widow, speaking up on his assassination that shocked the Caribbean nation.

"They riddled him with bullets, didn't let him say a word," said slain Haiti President Jovenel Moise's widow, speaking up on his assassination that shocked the Caribbean nation. It was Martine Moise's first public statements following the deadly attack on the leader. The first lady, who was rushed to US after being gravely wounded in the attack, asked the nation not to 'lose its way'. "In the blink of an eye, the mercenaries entered my house and riddled my husband with bullets," Martine Moise said in an audio message posted on Twitter, three days after her husband was shot and killed in their home. "This act has no name because you have to be a limitless criminal to assassinate a president like Jovenel Moïse, without even giving him the chance to say a single word." "Thank you, God, I am alive. I am alive but I have lost my husband Jovenel," she said. Also read | Haiti President Jovenel Moise assassinated, wife injured; World leaders pay tribute Pradel Henriquez, Haiti's minister of culture and communications, confirmed the authenticity of the remarks to news agency, AFP. Following the attack in the early hours of Wednesday, Martine Moise was rushed to a Haitian hospital, following which she had to be evacuated to Miami for treatment. Reports said that 28 men surrounded the couple in their home, including 26 Colombians and two Haitian-Americans, and began firing. Three of the assailants were killed, while 17 have been arrested. There are still a few at large, according to police. It's not clear why the attack occurred. Also read | Haiti says 26 Colombians, two Haitian Americans among group that killed president Despite my tears, she said, "we cannot allow this country to derail." saying Moise's spilled blood must not be in vain. Her husband's death has thrown Haiti in chaos, the poorest country in the Americas. Amid deep uncertainty over its political future, the international community has called on the impoverished Caribbean country to go ahead with the presidential and legislative elections slated for later this year. Also read | Haiti asks US, UN to send security forces to stabilise country: Minister Despite deep uncertainty about Haiti's political future, the international community says that the impoverished Caribbean country must hold its upcoming presidential and legislative elections. Martine Moise assured her that she would not abandon her country and promised Haitians that soon she'll engage with them directly on Facebook. (With inputs from agencies)

They riddled him with bullets, didn't let him say a word: Haiti president's widow speaks up on his assassination

Taliban attacks on security outposts in Gazni city were repelled by Afghan security forces on Sunday,&nbsp;&nbsp;TOLOnews reported, citing a police official.

The Taliban attacked security outposts in PD3, PD6, PD1 and PD5 in the early hours of Sunday morning, the provincial police statement said, adding "the Taliban faced a response from the joint security forces, and their attacks were pushed back."

Provincial police chief Fazel Ahmad assured people that security sources will defend the city.

"The Taliban escaped from the areas after the arrival of the reinforcements. Several Taliban were killed and wounded in the clashes," he said.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/air-defences-installed-at-afghanistans-kabul-airport-as-taliban-gain-ground-397377">Air defences installed at Afghanistan's Kabul airport as Taliban gain ground</a>

There was no mention in the statement about possible casualties among the security forces, said TOLOnews.

General Shir Mohammad Andewal, a military commander in Ghazni, pledged that the security forces will "bravely" defend the city. The Taliban has not yet commented on the attacks.

(With inputs from agencies)

Taliban attacks on security outposts in Gazni city were repelled by Afghan security forces on Sunday, TOLOnews reported, citing a police official. The Taliban attacked security outposts in PD3, PD6, PD1 and PD5 in the early hours of Sunday morning, the provincial police statement said, adding "the Taliban faced a response from the joint security forces, and their attacks were pushed back.

Taliban attacks on security outposts in Gazni city were repelled by Afghan security forces on Sunday, TOLOnews reported, citing a police official. The Taliban attacked security outposts in PD3, PD6, PD1 and PD5 in the early hours of Sunday morning, the provincial police statement said, adding "the Taliban faced a response from the joint security forces, and their attacks were pushed back." Provincial police chief Fazel Ahmad assured people that security sources will defend the city. "The Taliban escaped from the areas after the arrival of the reinforcements. Several Taliban were killed and wounded in the clashes," he said. Also Read | Air defences installed at Afghanistan's Kabul airport as Taliban gain ground There was no mention in the statement about possible casualties among the security forces, said TOLOnews. General Shir Mohammad Andewal, a military commander in Ghazni, pledged that the security forces will "bravely" defend the city. The Taliban has not yet commented on the attacks. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan: Taliban attack on Ghazni repelled, say police

Pope Francis greeted supporters and led prayers on Sunday from 10th floor balcony of his hospital. He is recovering from colon surgery.

"I am glad to be able to keep the Sunday Angelus appointment, even here" at the hospital, he said.&nbsp;

"I have deeply felt your closeness and the support of your prayers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart," he told 200 people gathered below.

The Vatican said on Friday (July 9) that the Pope is not well enough to return to the Vatican in time for his Sunday blessings.

This was the first time since his election in 2013 that Pope Francis didn't read prayers from the Vatican except for when he was away on trips.

The Catholic-run hospital and medical university traditionally treats popes, and part of its 10th floor is permanently reserved for them. It includes its own intensive care unit.

Pope John Paul II, who reigned from 1978 to 2005, was in the same hospital about 10 times and read the Sunday prayer from there, either from the window or with only audio when he was too ill to get out of bed.

Francis underwent a three-hour operation on Sunday (July 4) night. It was the first time he had been hospitalized since his election as pope in 2013.

He timed the surgery for the start of July, a month in which his only public commitments are his Sunday blessings.

(With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis greeted supporters and led prayers on Sunday from 10th floor balcony of his hospital. He is recovering from colon surgery. "I am glad to be able to keep the Sunday Angelus appointment, even here" at the hospital, he said.

Pope Francis greeted supporters and led prayers on Sunday from 10th floor balcony of his hospital. He is recovering from colon surgery. "I am glad to be able to keep the Sunday Angelus appointment, even here" at the hospital, he said. "I have deeply felt your closeness and the support of your prayers. Thank you from the bottom of my heart," he told 200 people gathered below. The Vatican said on Friday (July 9) that the Pope is not well enough to return to the Vatican in time for his Sunday blessings. This was the first time since his election in 2013 that Pope Francis didn't read prayers from the Vatican except for when he was away on trips. The Catholic-run hospital and medical university traditionally treats popes, and part of its 10th floor is permanently reserved for them. It includes its own intensive care unit. Pope John Paul II, who reigned from 1978 to 2005, was in the same hospital about 10 times and read the Sunday prayer from there, either from the window or with only audio when he was too ill to get out of bed. Francis underwent a three-hour operation on Sunday (July 4) night. It was the first time he had been hospitalized since his election as pope in 2013. He timed the surgery for the start of July, a month in which his only public commitments are his Sunday blessings. (With inputs from agencies)

Pope Francis leads prayers from hospital

A poll released on Saturday showed for the first time that a majority of Brazilians support impeaching President Jair Bolsonaro. Serious graft allegations in connection with vaccine procurement have hit Bolsonaro's already maligned image.&nbsp;

The survey was carried out by Datafloha. As per the survey, 54 per cent Brazilians support a proposed move by the country's lower house to open impeachment proceedings against Bolsonaro, while 42% oppose it. In the last Datafolha survey on the issue, released in May, supporters and opponents of impeachment were essentially tied.

In a separate Datafolha poll, released on Thursday, 51% of Brazilians said they disapproved of Bolsonaro, the highest figure since he took office in January 2019.

In recent weeks, Brasilia has been rocked by allegations that federal officials solicited bribes to fast-track and overpay for the Covaxin vaccine developed by India's Bharat Biotech. In late June, Brazil's Health Ministry suspended ($304 million) procurement deal.

A Health Ministry official and a congressman have said they shared their concerns about the Covaxin deal with Bolsonaro, but that no action appeared to have been taken. Last week, a Supreme Court judge authorized an investigation into the president for dereliction of duty.

In a radio interview on Saturday, Bolsonaro said he had taken measures after the officials shared their concerns about the Covaxin deal, but he did not elaborate further.

(With inputs from agencies)

A poll released on Saturday showed for the first time that a majority of Brazilians support impeaching President Jair Bolsonaro. Serious graft allegations in connection with vaccine procurement have hit Bolsonaro's already maligned image.

A poll released on Saturday showed for the first time that a majority of Brazilians support impeaching President Jair Bolsonaro. Serious graft allegations in connection with vaccine procurement have hit Bolsonaro's already maligned image. The survey was carried out by Datafloha. As per the survey, 54 per cent Brazilians support a proposed move by the country's lower house to open impeachment proceedings against Bolsonaro, while 42% oppose it. In the last Datafolha survey on the issue, released in May, supporters and opponents of impeachment were essentially tied. In a separate Datafolha poll, released on Thursday, 51% of Brazilians said they disapproved of Bolsonaro, the highest figure since he took office in January 2019. In recent weeks, Brasilia has been rocked by allegations that federal officials solicited bribes to fast-track and overpay for the Covaxin vaccine developed by India's Bharat Biotech. In late June, Brazil's Health Ministry suspended ($304 million) procurement deal. A Health Ministry official and a congressman have said they shared their concerns about the Covaxin deal with Bolsonaro, but that no action appeared to have been taken. Last week, a Supreme Court judge authorized an investigation into the president for dereliction of duty. In a radio interview on Saturday, Bolsonaro said he had taken measures after the officials shared their concerns about the Covaxin deal, but he did not elaborate further. (With inputs from agencies)

Poll shows majority of Brazilians support impeaching Bolsonaro

As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time). This caused closure of one of country's biggest roads.

Police on Saturday (July 10) said they had arrested 28 people.

Protests erupted in parts of Zuma's home province KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) after he handed himself over to the police to serve 15-month jail term for contempt of court.

On Friday, the high court dismissed Zuma's application to have his arrest overturned in a case that has been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's rule of law. An hour before the ruling, a Reuters photographer saw a group of protesters shouting "Zuma!" burning tyres and blocking a road.

Zuma's imprisonment has laid bare deep divisions in the governing African National Congress (ANC), as a party faction remains loyal to the former president and has been a potent source of opposition to his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa.

KZN police spokesman Jay Naicker said the 28 arrests had happened since Friday on charges including public violence, burglary, malicious damage to property, and contravention of COVID-19 lockdown regulations.

He said protesters had set alight some trucks near Mooi River, a town on the N3 highway that leads from Durban to Johannesburg, and shops had been looted in Mooi River and eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban.

Law enforcement officers had been deployed to all districts in the province but there had been no deaths or injuries so far, he added. As of lunchtime, the N3 was closed at Mooi River.

Ramaphosa, whose allies engineered Zuma's ouster in 2018, said in a statement that "criminal elements must be met with the full might of the law".

Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power.

He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry that was set up in his final weeks in office.

(With inputs from agencies)

As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time).

As violent protests raged against former South African President Jacob Zuma's jailing, several trucks were set on fire on a main highway in South Africa on Friday night (local time). This caused closure of one of country's biggest roads. Police on Saturday (July 10) said they had arrested 28 people. Protests erupted in parts of Zuma's home province KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) after he handed himself over to the police to serve 15-month jail term for contempt of court. On Friday, the high court dismissed Zuma's application to have his arrest overturned in a case that has been seen as a test of the post-apartheid nation's rule of law. An hour before the ruling, a Reuters photographer saw a group of protesters shouting "Zuma!" burning tyres and blocking a road. Zuma's imprisonment has laid bare deep divisions in the governing African National Congress (ANC), as a party faction remains loyal to the former president and has been a potent source of opposition to his successor, Cyril Ramaphosa. KZN police spokesman Jay Naicker said the 28 arrests had happened since Friday on charges including public violence, burglary, malicious damage to property, and contravention of COVID-19 lockdown regulations. He said protesters had set alight some trucks near Mooi River, a town on the N3 highway that leads from Durban to Johannesburg, and shops had been looted in Mooi River and eThekwini, the municipality that includes Durban. Law enforcement officers had been deployed to all districts in the province but there had been no deaths or injuries so far, he added. As of lunchtime, the N3 was closed at Mooi River. Ramaphosa, whose allies engineered Zuma's ouster in 2018, said in a statement that "criminal elements must be met with the full might of the law". Zuma was given the jail term for defying an order from the constitutional court to give evidence at an inquiry investigating high-level corruption during his nine years in power. He denies there was widespread corruption under his leadership but has refused to cooperate with the inquiry that was set up in his final weeks in office. (With inputs from agencies)

Zuma supporters protest ex-South African president's jailing

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities".

A Casablanca court on Friday sentenced&nbsp;Soulaimane&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;-- on hunger strike for more than 90 days -- &nbsp;after convicting him of indecent assault against another man.

He maintains his innocence and is the latest in a string of journalists critical of Morocco's government to have been jailed for alleged sex crimes.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/moroccan-journalist-gets-5-year-jail-term-for-indecent-assault-397265">Moroccan journalist gets 5-year jail term for 'indecent assault'</a>

Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct Akhbar Al Yaoum, was not present in court to hear the verdict, despite being summoned by the judge.&nbsp;

The last time he came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin and he requested an ambulance and wheelchair to enable him to attend the later stages of court proceedings.

His supporters insist the case is politically motivated and part of an extraordinary official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists. Morocco says its judiciary is independent.

RSF said Saturday the sentence "follows a trial that was tainted by obvious irregularities" and called for&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to be freed, pending an appeal.

"After such a long hunger strike his health is at stake. He deserves a fair trial," the media watchdog said.

Raissouni, 49, began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released.

He has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault.

Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas.

A committee supporting&nbsp;Raissouni, comprising human rights activists from several Moroccan organisations, on Saturday dismissed the verdict as "unjust... severe and incomprehensible".

"There is a political will to instrumentalise justice in order to legitimise injustice," it said in a statement.

It also criticised the court for "failing to... hear any witnesses, present any evidence... or call the defendant to testify" and for "rejecting all the requests of the defence team".

'Justice triumphed'&nbsp;

Miloud Kandil, one of&nbsp;Raissouni's lawyers, termed the verdict "judicial butchery".

"How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he told reporters after leaving the courtroom.

The plaintiff, however, said "justice has triumphed," in a Facebook post. &nbsp;"The dirty manoeuvres to politicise the case have been in vain."

Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, said in late June he has lost more than 35 kilogrammes (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention.

His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns.

Earlier this week, the judge ordered&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict, but the journalist "refused", according to a statement read in court.

His defence team had boycotted the trial since Tuesday to protest at the judge's refusal to allow&nbsp;Raissouni&nbsp;to be hospitalised.

Raissouni's wife Kholoud Mokhtari said last month that he was "very tired" and "close to death".

His supporters and activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges.

Raissouni's niece, Hajar&nbsp;Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI.

Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).&nbsp;

CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in Morocco as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities".

The sentencing of a Moroccan journalist to five years in prison for indecent assault sparked condemnation Saturday, with media watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF) deploring a trial "tainted by irregularities". A Casablanca court on Friday sentenced Soulaimane Raissouni -- on hunger strike for more than 90 days -- after convicting him of indecent assault against another man. He maintains his innocence and is the latest in a string of journalists critical of Morocco's government to have been jailed for alleged sex crimes. Also read | Moroccan journalist gets 5-year jail term for 'indecent assault' Raissouni, editor-in-chief of now-defunct Akhbar Al Yaoum, was not present in court to hear the verdict, despite being summoned by the judge. The last time he came to court, on June 10, he appeared skeletally thin and he requested an ambulance and wheelchair to enable him to attend the later stages of court proceedings. His supporters insist the case is politically motivated and part of an extraordinary official defamation campaign against critical journalists and activists. Morocco says its judiciary is independent. RSF said Saturday the sentence "follows a trial that was tainted by obvious irregularities" and called for Raissouni to be freed, pending an appeal. "After such a long hunger strike his health is at stake. He deserves a fair trial," the media watchdog said. Raissouni, 49, began a hunger strike in April demanding to be provisionally released. He has been in detention since May 2020 after an LGBT activist accused him of sexual assault. Moroccan courts have rejected all his release requests, despite a pressure campaign both locally and overseas. A committee supporting Raissouni, comprising human rights activists from several Moroccan organisations, on Saturday dismissed the verdict as "unjust... severe and incomprehensible". "There is a political will to instrumentalise justice in order to legitimise injustice," it said in a statement. It also criticised the court for "failing to... hear any witnesses, present any evidence... or call the defendant to testify" and for "rejecting all the requests of the defence team". 'Justice triumphed' Miloud Kandil, one of Raissouni's lawyers, termed the verdict "judicial butchery". "How can you condemn an accused in his absence?" he told reporters after leaving the courtroom. The plaintiff, however, said "justice has triumphed," in a Facebook post. "The dirty manoeuvres to politicise the case have been in vain." Raissouni, who has a history of run-ins with the authorities, said in late June he has lost more than 35 kilogrammes (77 pounds), much of it since he began his hunger strike over the "great injustice" of his detention. His trial began in February but has been delayed several times, including over health concerns. Earlier this week, the judge ordered Raissouni to appear in court to hear Friday's verdict, but the journalist "refused", according to a statement read in court. His defence team had boycotted the trial since Tuesday to protest at the judge's refusal to allow Raissouni to be hospitalised. Raissouni's wife Kholoud Mokhtari said last month that he was "very tired" and "close to death". His supporters and activists have accused the Moroccan government of trying to silence journalists, mostly by using sex-related charges. Raissouni's niece, Hajar Raissouni, was a reporter at the same newspaper and was sentenced in 2019 to one year in prison for sex outside marriage and an "illegal abortion" before she was pardoned by King Mohammed VI. Another journalist, Omar Radi, has been held in solitary confinement on charges of sexual assault and undermining state security, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). CPJ data show four journalists have been imprisoned in Morocco as of December 2020, three on sex crimes.

Media watchdog blasts Morocco journalist's 5-year prison term on sex charge

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party won maximum seats in Ethiopia's parliamentary elections, as per the country's election board. The victory assures him another term in the office.

He hailed the vote as the country's first free and fair election after repressive rule that lasted decades. The voting took place on June 21. However, an opposition boycott, war in the northern region of Tigray, ethnic violence and logistical challenges in some areas overshadowed the election. Voting did not take place in three of Ethiopia's 10 regions.

Abiy's party won 410 of 436 parliamentary seats, election board deputy chairperson Woubshet Ayele announced in the capital Addis Ababa. Chairperson Birtukan Mideksa said the board had delivered a credible election.

Opposition leader Berhanu Nega said his Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice party (Ezema) had filed 207 complaints after local officials and militiamen blocked observers in the Amhara region and Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' region.

The election was the first test of voter support for Abiy, who promised political and economic reforms when he was appointed prime minister by the governing coalition in 2018.

Within months of taking office, Abiy lifted a ban on opposition parties, released tens of thousands of political prisoners and took steps to open up one of Africa's last untapped markets.

He now faces international pressure over the war in Tigray and accusations from rights groups that his government is rolling back some new freedoms, which it denies.

Abiy's newly formed Prosperity Party faced a fragmented opposition of dozens of mostly ethnically-based parties. The opposition parties Ezema and the National Movement of Amhara (NAMA) each won less than 10 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party won maximum seats in Ethiopia's parliamentary elections, as per the country's election board. The victory assures him another term in the office.

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's Prosperity Party won maximum seats in Ethiopia's parliamentary elections, as per the country's election board. The victory assures him another term in the office. He hailed the vote as the country's first free and fair election after repressive rule that lasted decades. The voting took place on June 21. However, an opposition boycott, war in the northern region of Tigray, ethnic violence and logistical challenges in some areas overshadowed the election. Voting did not take place in three of Ethiopia's 10 regions. Abiy's party won 410 of 436 parliamentary seats, election board deputy chairperson Woubshet Ayele announced in the capital Addis Ababa. Chairperson Birtukan Mideksa said the board had delivered a credible election. Opposition leader Berhanu Nega said his Ethiopian Citizens for Social Justice party (Ezema) had filed 207 complaints after local officials and militiamen blocked observers in the Amhara region and Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples' region. The election was the first test of voter support for Abiy, who promised political and economic reforms when he was appointed prime minister by the governing coalition in 2018. Within months of taking office, Abiy lifted a ban on opposition parties, released tens of thousands of political prisoners and took steps to open up one of Africa's last untapped markets. He now faces international pressure over the war in Tigray and accusations from rights groups that his government is rolling back some new freedoms, which it denies. Abiy's newly formed Prosperity Party faced a fragmented opposition of dozens of mostly ethnically-based parties. The opposition parties Ezema and the National Movement of Amhara (NAMA) each won less than 10 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Ethiopia: PM Abiy Ahmed's party registers landslide victory in election

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