European Union's data protection agencies called for a &nbsp;ban on use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify people in public places. The agencies pointed to the "extremely high risk to privacy.

The two bodies called for a "general ban" &nbsp;on the practice that would include "recognition of faces, gait, fingerprints, DNA, voice, keystrokes and other biometric or behavioural signals, in any context". It is a non-binding opinion.

Such practices "interfere with fundamental rights and freedoms to such an extent that they may call into question the essence of these rights and freedoms," the heads of the European Data Protection Board and the European Data Protection Supervisor said.

If it becomes a reality, the ban would include any AI that would &nbsp;"categorise individuals into clusters based on ethnicity, gender, political or sexual orientation", the statement said

The opinion of the agencies is intended for the European Commission.

The commission's plan includes special exceptions for allowing the use of mass facial recognition in cases such as searching for a missing child, averting a terror threat, or tracking down someone suspected of a serious crime.

Brussels hopes its first-ever legislative package on AI will help Europe catch up with the US and China in a sector that spans from voice recognition to insurance and law enforcement.

In a statement, the commission said it took note of the opinion, but stood by a proposal "that provides sufficient protection and limits the use of those systems to the strict minimum necessary".&nbsp;

The proposal is under negotiation at the European Parliament and among the 27 member states. The outcome could set a global standard for how tech is regulated.

(With inputs from agencies)

European Union's data protection agencies called for a ban on use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify people in public places. The agencies pointed to the "extremely high risk to privacy.

European Union's data protection agencies called for a ban on use of artificial intelligence (AI) to identify people in public places. The agencies pointed to the "extremely high risk to privacy. The two bodies called for a "general ban" on the practice that would include "recognition of faces, gait, fingerprints, DNA, voice, keystrokes and other biometric or behavioural signals, in any context". It is a non-binding opinion. Such practices "interfere with fundamental rights and freedoms to such an extent that they may call into question the essence of these rights and freedoms," the heads of the European Data Protection Board and the European Data Protection Supervisor said. If it becomes a reality, the ban would include any AI that would "categorise individuals into clusters based on ethnicity, gender, political or sexual orientation", the statement said The opinion of the agencies is intended for the European Commission. The commission's plan includes special exceptions for allowing the use of mass facial recognition in cases such as searching for a missing child, averting a terror threat, or tracking down someone suspected of a serious crime. Brussels hopes its first-ever legislative package on AI will help Europe catch up with the US and China in a sector that spans from voice recognition to insurance and law enforcement. In a statement, the commission said it took note of the opinion, but stood by a proposal "that provides sufficient protection and limits the use of those systems to the strict minimum necessary". The proposal is under negotiation at the European Parliament and among the 27 member states. The outcome could set a global standard for how tech is regulated. (With inputs from agencies)

EU data protection agencies want ban on AI facial recognition

Humans have been on Earth for just a fraction of its existence. The planet has a life, mind and nature or its own, so to speak. A lot keeps on happening without human even being aware of it, let alone having power to control it.&nbsp;

Now scientists have found that Earth has a 'heartbeat' and a even a 'pulse' of 27.5 million years. And we don't know what causes it. Michael Rampino, a Geologist of New York University led the team that carried out the study.&nbsp;

The 'heartbeat' is of clustered geological events. Scientists have found that major events such mass extinction, where major chunk of life on Earth died out, happened at the time of this 'pulse'. It is not the only catastrophic event that occurred around the pulse but others such as volcanic eruptions, sea-level fluctuations, intraplate magmatism, changes in seafloor and others.

The scientists found that most of these calamitous incidents happened over geologically small period of time every 27.5 million years. However, there is no firm reason for existence of this cycle

So does this mean that we are doomed? End of humanity is just around the corner?

Well we can take heart in knowing that scientists who did this study predict that the next such pulse is 20 million years away.

The study has been published in the scientific journal Geoscience Frontiers.

Humans have been on Earth for just a fraction of its existence. The planet has a life, mind and nature or its own, so to speak. A lot keeps on happening without human even being aware of it, let alone having power to control it.

Humans have been on Earth for just a fraction of its existence. The planet has a life, mind and nature or its own, so to speak. A lot keeps on happening without human even being aware of it, let alone having power to control it. Now scientists have found that Earth has a 'heartbeat' and a even a 'pulse' of 27.5 million years. And we don't know what causes it. Michael Rampino, a Geologist of New York University led the team that carried out the study. The 'heartbeat' is of clustered geological events. Scientists have found that major events such mass extinction, where major chunk of life on Earth died out, happened at the time of this 'pulse'. It is not the only catastrophic event that occurred around the pulse but others such as volcanic eruptions, sea-level fluctuations, intraplate magmatism, changes in seafloor and others. The scientists found that most of these calamitous incidents happened over geologically small period of time every 27.5 million years. However, there is no firm reason for existence of this cycle So does this mean that we are doomed? End of humanity is just around the corner? Well we can take heart in knowing that scientists who did this study predict that the next such pulse is 20 million years away. The study has been published in the scientific journal Geoscience Frontiers.

Earth has a 'heartbeat' and nobody knows what causes it

Gulf Arab states are unlikely to be deterred from dialogue to improve ties with Iran after a hardline judge won the presidency but their talks with Tehran might become tougher, analysts said.

Prospects for better relations between Muslim Shi'ite Iran and Sunni Gulf Arab monarchies could ultimately hinge on progress to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, they said, after Ebrahim Raisi won Friday's election.

The Iranian judge and cleric, who is subject to US sanctions, takes office in August, while nuclear talks in Vienna under outgoing President Hassan Rouhani, a more pragmatic cleric, are ongoing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/ultraconservative-cleric-ebrahim-raisi-wins-irans-presidential-election-392598">Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election</a>

Saudi Arabia and Iran, longtime regional foes, began direct talks in April to contain tensions at the same time as global powers have been embroiled in nuclear negotiations.

"Iran has now sent a clear message that they are tilting to a more radical, more conservative position," said Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, a UAE political analyst, adding that Raisi's election might make improving Gulf ties a tougher challenge.

"Nevertheless, Iran is not in a position to become more radical ... because the region is becoming very difficult and very dangerous," he added.

The United Arab Emirates, whose commercial hub Dubai has been a trade gateway for Iran, and Oman, which has often played a regional mediation role, were swift to congratulate Raisi.

Saudi Arabia has yet to comment.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-cutting-forces-missile-batteries-in-middle-east-392557">US cutting forces, missile batteries in Middle East</a>

Raisi, an implacable critic of the West and an ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate power in Iran, has voiced support for continuing the nuclear negotiations.

"If the Vienna talks succeed and there is a better situation with America, then (with) hardliners in power, who are close to the supreme leader, the situation may improve," said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of Gulf Research Center.

Leverage

A revived nuclear deal and the lifting of US sanctions on the Islamic Republic would boost Raisi, easing Iran's economic crisis and offering leverage in Gulf talks, said Jean-Marc Rickli, an analyst at Geneva Centre for Security Policy.

Neither Iran nor Gulf Arabs want a return to the kind of tensions seen in 2019 that spiralled after the US killing, under former US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>, of top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. Gulf states blamed Iran or its proxies for a spate of attacks on oil tankers and Saudi oil plants.

A perception that Washington was now disengaging militarily from the area under US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden</a> has prompted a more pragmatic Gulf approach, analysts said.

Nevertheless, Biden has demanded Iran rein in its missile programme and end its support for proxies in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi movement in Yemen, demands that have strong support from Gulf Arab nations.

"The Saudis have realised they can no longer rely on the Americans for their security ... and have seen that Iran has the means to really put pressure on the kingdom through direct attacks and also with the quagmire of Yemen," Rickli said.

Saudi-Iran talks have focused mainly on Yemen, where a military campaign led by Riyadh against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement for over six years no longer has US backing.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/cautious-welcome-for-biden-in-gulf-amid-yet-uncertain-iran-policy-358313">Cautious welcome for Biden in Gulf amid yet uncertain Iran policy</a>

The UAE has maintained contacts with Tehran since 2019, while also forging ties with Israel, Iran's arch regional foe.

Sanam Vakil, an analyst at Britain's Chatham House, wrote last week that regional conversations, particularly on maritime security, were expected to continue but "can only gain momentum if Tehran demonstrates meaningful goodwill".

&nbsp;

Gulf Arab states are unlikely to be deterred from dialogue to improve ties with Iran after a hardline judge won the presidency but their talks with Tehran might become tougher, analysts said.

Gulf Arab states are unlikely to be deterred from dialogue to improve ties with Iran after a hardline judge won the presidency but their talks with Tehran might become tougher, analysts said. Prospects for better relations between Muslim Shi'ite Iran and Sunni Gulf Arab monarchies could ultimately hinge on progress to revive Tehran's 2015 nuclear accord with world powers, they said, after Ebrahim Raisi won Friday's election. The Iranian judge and cleric, who is subject to US sanctions, takes office in August, while nuclear talks in Vienna under outgoing President Hassan Rouhani, a more pragmatic cleric, are ongoing. Also read | Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election Saudi Arabia and Iran, longtime regional foes, began direct talks in April to contain tensions at the same time as global powers have been embroiled in nuclear negotiations. "Iran has now sent a clear message that they are tilting to a more radical, more conservative position," said Abdulkhaleq Abdulla, a UAE political analyst, adding that Raisi's election might make improving Gulf ties a tougher challenge. "Nevertheless, Iran is not in a position to become more radical ... because the region is becoming very difficult and very dangerous," he added. The United Arab Emirates, whose commercial hub Dubai has been a trade gateway for Iran, and Oman, which has often played a regional mediation role, were swift to congratulate Raisi. Saudi Arabia has yet to comment. Also read | US cutting forces, missile batteries in Middle East Raisi, an implacable critic of the West and an ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who holds ultimate power in Iran, has voiced support for continuing the nuclear negotiations. "If the Vienna talks succeed and there is a better situation with America, then (with) hardliners in power, who are close to the supreme leader, the situation may improve," said Abdulaziz Sager, chairman of Gulf Research Center. Leverage A revived nuclear deal and the lifting of US sanctions on the Islamic Republic would boost Raisi, easing Iran's economic crisis and offering leverage in Gulf talks, said Jean-Marc Rickli, an analyst at Geneva Centre for Security Policy. Neither Iran nor Gulf Arabs want a return to the kind of tensions seen in 2019 that spiralled after the US killing, under former US President Donald Trump, of top Iranian general Qassem Soleimani. Gulf states blamed Iran or its proxies for a spate of attacks on oil tankers and Saudi oil plants. A perception that Washington was now disengaging militarily from the area under US President Joe Biden has prompted a more pragmatic Gulf approach, analysts said. Nevertheless, Biden has demanded Iran rein in its missile programme and end its support for proxies in the region, such as Hezbollah in Lebanon and the Houthi movement in Yemen, demands that have strong support from Gulf Arab nations. "The Saudis have realised they can no longer rely on the Americans for their security ... and have seen that Iran has the means to really put pressure on the kingdom through direct attacks and also with the quagmire of Yemen," Rickli said. Saudi-Iran talks have focused mainly on Yemen, where a military campaign led by Riyadh against the Iran-aligned Houthi movement for over six years no longer has US backing. Also read | Cautious welcome for Biden in Gulf amid yet uncertain Iran policy The UAE has maintained contacts with Tehran since 2019, while also forging ties with Israel, Iran's arch regional foe. Sanam Vakil, an analyst at Britain's Chatham House, wrote last week that regional conversations, particularly on maritime security, were expected to continue but "can only gain momentum if Tehran demonstrates meaningful goodwill".

As Iran veers right, ties with Gulf Arabs may hinge on nuclear pact

On Saturday, it was clear that hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi would be the new President of Iran. His victory was widely anticipated. Raisi bagged almost 62 per cent of votes in Iran's presidential elections as per the official figures. Voter turnout was 48.8 per cent, a record low for a presidential poll in the Islamic republic.

"I congratulate the people on their choice," said outgoing moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who has served the maximum of two consecutive four-year terms and leaves office in August.

There were mixed reaction from across the world.

VLADIMIR PUTIN, RUSSIAN PRESIDENT

"Relations between our countries are traditionally friendly and good-neighborly. I hope that your activities in this high post will contribute to the further development of constructive bilateral cooperation in various directions, as well as to the partnership in international affairs. This fully meets the interests of the Russian and Iranian peoples, goes in line with the strengthening of regional security and stability," Putin said in a message to Raisi, according to the Kremlin.

LIOR HAIAT, ISRAELI FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESMAN

"After the Supreme Leader effectively dictated to the Iranian public who they could choose, less than 50% of Iranian citizens eligible to vote have elected its most extremist president to date. The butcher of Tehran, Ebrahim Raisi, has been rightly denounced by the international community for his direct role in the extrajudicial executions of over 30,000 people.

"An extremist figure, committed to Iran’s rapidly advancing military nuclear programme, his election makes clear Iran's true malign intentions, and should prompt grave concern among the international community," Haiat said in a statement.

BASHAR AL-ASSAD, SYRIAN PRESIDENT

Assad wished Raisi success "for the good and interest of the steadfast Iranian people in the face of all schemes and pressures that aim to break their will and undermine their independent decision," according to a Syrian presidency statement.

TAYYIP ERDOGAN, TURKISH PRESIDENT

"Stating my belief that cooperation between our two countries will strengthen during your presidency, I am ready to work together with you," Erdogan said in a letter sent to Raisi.

SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES VICE-PRESIDENT AND DUBAI RULER

"We wish for the Islamic Republic, and for our bilateral relations, stability, continuity and prosperity," he said in a statement tweeted by Dubai's media office.

ABU DHABI CROWN PRINCE SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED

Sent a message of congratulations, according to state news agency WAM.

HAITHAM BIN TARIQ AL-SAID, SULTAN OF OMAN

Congratulated Raisi on his victory, Oman's state news agency ONA reported.

TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL-THANI, QATAR'S EMIR

Sent a message to Raisi "wishing him success as well as further development and growth of the relations between the two countries," state news agency QNA said.

SHEIKH NAWAF AL-AHMAD AL-SABAH, KUWAIT'S EMIR

Messaged Raisi, "wishing him further success and wellness, as well as the friendly Islamic Republic to further progress and prosper," according to KUNA state news agency.

BARHAM SALIH, IRAQI PRESIDENT

"I extend my sincere congratulations and blessings on the occasion of your election as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran ... We in Iraq look forward to strengthening our solid relations with our neighbour Iran and its people."

MICHAEL PAGE, DEPUTY MIDDLE EAST DIRECTOR, HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH

"Iranian authorities paved the way for Ebrahim Raisi to become president through repression and an unfair election. As head of Iran's repressive judiciary, Raisi oversaw some of the most heinous crimes in Iran’s recent history, which deserve investigation and accountability rather than election to high office."

AGNES CALLAMARD, SECRETARY GENERAL AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL

"That Ebrahim Raisi has risen to the presidency instead of being investigated for the crimes against humanity of murder, enforced disappearance and torture, is a grim reminder that impunity reigns supreme in Iran. We continue to call for Ebrahim Raisi to be investigated for his involvement in past and ongoing crimes under international law, including by states that exercise universal jurisdiction."

MARYAM RAJAVI, PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE PARIS-BASED NATIONAL COUNCIL OF RESISTANCE OF IRAN

"Ebrahim Raisi, the henchman of the 1988 massacre and murderer of the Mujahedin-e Khalq (PMOI/MEK), is Khamenei’s final bid to preserve his regime. Weak, crisis-riddled, and rattled by looming uprisings, Khamenei purged all rivals to install Raisi as president, one of the vilest criminals against humanity since World War II."

MAHDI AL-MASHAT, HEAD OF THE HOUTHI MOVEMENT'S POLITICAL OFFICE

Sent a message of congratulations to Raisi on his victory, al-Masirah TV reported.

HAZEM QASSEM, HAMAS SPOKESMAN IN GAZA

"We congratulate the Islamic Republic of Iran for the success of the democratic process, the holding of the presidential election and the victory of Ebrahim Raisi as Iran’s President. We wish the Islamic Republic of Iran progress and prosperity. Iran has always been a fundamental and a real supporter of the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian resistance."

YOUSSEF AL-HASSAYNA, ISLAMIC JIHAD OFFICIAL IN GAZA

"Once again the people of Iran have reiterated their commitment to the path of revolution and its regime. We congratulate the Islamic Republic and the people of Iran on this great achievement."

(With inputs from agencies)

On Saturday, it was clear that hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi would be the new President of Iran. His victory was widely anticipated. Raisi bagged almost 62 per cent of votes in Iran's presidential elections as per the official figures.

On Saturday, it was clear that hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi would be the new President of Iran. His victory was widely anticipated. Raisi bagged almost 62 per cent of votes in Iran's presidential elections as per the official figures. Voter turnout was 48.8 per cent, a record low for a presidential poll in the Islamic republic. "I congratulate the people on their choice," said outgoing moderate President Hassan Rouhani, who has served the maximum of two consecutive four-year terms and leaves office in August. There were mixed reaction from across the world. VLADIMIR PUTIN, RUSSIAN PRESIDENT "Relations between our countries are traditionally friendly and good-neighborly. I hope that your activities in this high post will contribute to the further development of constructive bilateral cooperation in various directions, as well as to the partnership in international affairs. This fully meets the interests of the Russian and Iranian peoples, goes in line with the strengthening of regional security and stability," Putin said in a message to Raisi, according to the Kremlin. LIOR HAIAT, ISRAELI FOREIGN MINISTRY SPOKESMAN "After the Supreme Leader effectively dictated to the Iranian public who they could choose, less than 50% of Iranian citizens eligible to vote have elected its most extremist president to date. The butcher of Tehran, Ebrahim Raisi, has been rightly denounced by the international community for his direct role in the extrajudicial executions of over 30,000 people. "An extremist figure, committed to Iran’s rapidly advancing military nuclear programme, his election makes clear Iran's true malign intentions, and should prompt grave concern among the international community," Haiat said in a statement. BASHAR AL-ASSAD, SYRIAN PRESIDENT Assad wished Raisi success "for the good and interest of the steadfast Iranian people in the face of all schemes and pressures that aim to break their will and undermine their independent decision," according to a Syrian presidency statement. TAYYIP ERDOGAN, TURKISH PRESIDENT "Stating my belief that cooperation between our two countries will strengthen during your presidency, I am ready to work together with you," Erdogan said in a letter sent to Raisi. SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN RASHID, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES VICE-PRESIDENT AND DUBAI RULER "We wish for the Islamic Republic, and for our bilateral relations, stability, continuity and prosperity," he said in a statement tweeted by Dubai's media office. ABU DHABI CROWN PRINCE SHEIKH MOHAMMED BIN ZAYED Sent a message of congratulations, according to state news agency WAM. HAITHAM BIN TARIQ AL-SAID, SULTAN OF OMAN Congratulated Raisi on his victory, Oman's state news agency ONA reported. TAMIM BIN HAMAD AL-THANI, QATAR'S EMIR Sent a message to Raisi "wishing him success as well as further development and growth of the relations between the two countries," state news agency QNA said. SHEIKH NAWAF AL-AHMAD AL-SABAH, KUWAIT'S EMIR Messaged Raisi, "wishing him further success and wellness, as well as the friendly Islamic Republic to further progress and prosper," according to KUNA state news agency. BARHAM SALIH, IRAQI PRESIDENT "I extend my sincere congratulations and blessings on the occasion of your election as President of the Islamic Republic of Iran ... We in Iraq look forward to strengthening our solid relations with our neighbour Iran and its people." MICHAEL PAGE, DEPUTY MIDDLE EAST DIRECTOR, HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH "Iranian authorities paved the way for Ebrahim Raisi to become president through repression and an unfair election. As head of Iran's repressive judiciary, Raisi oversaw some of the most heinous crimes in Iran’s recent history, which deserve investigation and accountability rather than election to high office." AGNES CALLAMARD, SECRETARY GENERAL AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL "That Ebrahim Raisi has risen to the presidency instead of being investigated for the crimes against humanity of murder, enforced disappearance and torture, is a grim reminder that impunity reigns supreme in Iran. We continue to call for Ebrahim Raisi to be investigated for his involvement in past and ongoing crimes under international law, including by states that exercise universal jurisdiction." MARYAM RAJAVI, PRESIDENT-ELECT OF THE PARIS-BASED NATIONAL COUNCIL OF RESISTANCE OF IRAN "Ebrahim Raisi, the henchman of the 1988 massacre and murderer of the Mujahedin-e Khalq (PMOI/MEK), is Khamenei’s final bid to preserve his regime. Weak, crisis-riddled, and rattled by looming uprisings, Khamenei purged all rivals to install Raisi as president, one of the vilest criminals against humanity since World War II." MAHDI AL-MASHAT, HEAD OF THE HOUTHI MOVEMENT'S POLITICAL OFFICE Sent a message of congratulations to Raisi on his victory, al-Masirah TV reported. HAZEM QASSEM, HAMAS SPOKESMAN IN GAZA "We congratulate the Islamic Republic of Iran for the success of the democratic process, the holding of the presidential election and the victory of Ebrahim Raisi as Iran’s President. We wish the Islamic Republic of Iran progress and prosperity. Iran has always been a fundamental and a real supporter of the Palestinian cause and the Palestinian resistance." YOUSSEF AL-HASSAYNA, ISLAMIC JIHAD OFFICIAL IN GAZA "Once again the people of Iran have reiterated their commitment to the path of revolution and its regime. We congratulate the Islamic Republic and the people of Iran on this great achievement." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran elects new president, mixed reactions across world

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful.

The no-confidence vote was called last week for Monday but anti-immigration Sweden Democrats withdrew its support over his plan to liberalise Sweden`s rigid rent control system.

Lofven and his centrist Social Democrats have led a fragile minority government since the inconclusive elections in 2018, striking a deal on a broad reform programme with two centre-right parties.

In one of many concessions to the Liberals and the Centre Party, he agreed to submit a proposal to parliament in the autumn to abolish collective bargaining for rents for newly built apartments.

Lofven sought to soften the reform on Sunday by inviting landlords and tenant organisations for negotiations, but the Left Party dismissed that initiative as "political theatre."

"Following the notice we have received today, the Left Party will vote `red` tomorrow against Stefan Lofven," its leader Nooshi Dadgostar told a news conference.

If, as appears almost certain, Lofven loses Monday`s vote, he can either resign and let the speaker task lawmakers with trying to form a new government, or call a snap election, something that has not happened in Sweden since 1958.

(With inputs from agencies)

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful.

Swedish Prime Minister Stefan Lofven was hours away on Sunday from being first PM of the country to lose a no-confidence vote. His last-ditch effort to secure majority support in parliament were not successful. The no-confidence vote was called last week for Monday but anti-immigration Sweden Democrats withdrew its support over his plan to liberalise Sweden`s rigid rent control system. Lofven and his centrist Social Democrats have led a fragile minority government since the inconclusive elections in 2018, striking a deal on a broad reform programme with two centre-right parties. In one of many concessions to the Liberals and the Centre Party, he agreed to submit a proposal to parliament in the autumn to abolish collective bargaining for rents for newly built apartments. Lofven sought to soften the reform on Sunday by inviting landlords and tenant organisations for negotiations, but the Left Party dismissed that initiative as "political theatre." "Following the notice we have received today, the Left Party will vote `red` tomorrow against Stefan Lofven," its leader Nooshi Dadgostar told a news conference. If, as appears almost certain, Lofven loses Monday`s vote, he can either resign and let the speaker task lawmakers with trying to form a new government, or call a snap election, something that has not happened in Sweden since 1958. (With inputs from agencies)

Sweden PM Stefan Lofven faces defeat in Monday no-confidence vote

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar military toppled civilian government led by Aung Sab Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1

Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing left the capital Naypyidaw Sunday on a special flight to attend the Moscow Conference for International Security, state-run MRTV said.

The report said that he was attending at "the invitation of Russian Defence Minister". It added that he had been "greeted" by the Russian ambassador to Myanmar at the airport.

The report didn't give details on how long he was expected to stay in Russia. It is an ally and a major arms supplier to the Myanmar military.

Myanmar's embassy in Russia later confirmed Min Aung Hlaing's arrival to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. 
"The commander-in-chief has arrived in Moscow," an embassy spokesperson was cited by the news agency as saying.

The junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has since killed at least 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group.

In May local media reported the chief of Myanmar's air force attended a military helicopter exhibition in Moscow.

Min Aung Hlaing's visit comes after the UN General Assembly took the rare step on Friday of calling on member states to "prevent the flow of arms" into Myanmar.

(With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar.

Myanmar military junta chief arrived in Moscow on Sunday to attend a security conference. This marks his second known trip abroad since military coup in Myanmar. Myanmar military toppled civilian government led by Aung Sab Suu Kyi in a coup on February 1 Junta leader Min Aung Hlaing left the capital Naypyidaw Sunday on a special flight to attend the Moscow Conference for International Security, state-run MRTV said. The report said that he was attending at "the invitation of Russian Defence Minister". It added that he had been "greeted" by the Russian ambassador to Myanmar at the airport. The report didn't give details on how long he was expected to stay in Russia. It is an ally and a major arms supplier to the Myanmar military. Myanmar's embassy in Russia later confirmed Min Aung Hlaing's arrival to Russian state news agency RIA Novosti. "The commander-in-chief has arrived in Moscow," an embassy spokesperson was cited by the news agency as saying. The junta's brutal crackdown on dissent has since killed at least 870 civilians, according to a local monitoring group. In May local media reported the chief of Myanmar's air force attended a military helicopter exhibition in Moscow. Min Aung Hlaing's visit comes after the UN General Assembly took the rare step on Friday of calling on member states to "prevent the flow of arms" into Myanmar. (With inputs from agencies)

Myanmar military junta leader arrives in Moscow for conference

On Sunday, negotiators from Iran and the P5+1 countries adjourned&nbsp;their talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal; Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and returned to their respective country capitals for consultations, as according to the Iran delegation chief, remaining differences cannot be overcome so easily. &nbsp;

Talking to Iranian state TV from Vienna, Abbas Araqchi said, "We are now closer than ever to an agreement but the distance that exists between us and an agreement remains and bridging it is not an easy job,"

"We will return to Tehran tonight." He added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-irans-raisi-extreme-committed-to-nuclear-programme-392707">Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme</a>

As of yet, it is still unclear when the formal negotiations will resume. &nbsp;

Parties to the pact wrapped up, after more than a week of negotiations in this&nbsp;latest round. According to the&nbsp;Russian&nbsp;envoy though no date for a resumption in negotiations had been set, for now, but that they could return in about 10 days.

Enrique Mora, the European Union political director who has been&nbsp;coordinating the discussions told reporters in Vienna, that&nbsp;"We have made progress this week, in this sixth round. We are closer to a deal but we are not still there. We are closer than we were one week ago but we are not still there,".

Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner, ultraconservative cleric, on Friday secured victory in Iran’s presidential elections, replacing pragmatist Hassan Rouhani.

This is not expected to disrupt Iran’s efforts to rebuild the nuclear pact and escape tough US financial and oil sanctions, as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has the final say on all the major policy decisions.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-irans-raisi-extreme-committed-to-nuclear-programme-392707">Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme</a>

Under the Donald Trump administration, Washington exited from the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Tehran.

In an attempt to iron out steps both the United States and Iran must take on nuclear activities and sanctions, so as to return to full compliance with the pact, negotiations have been underway in Vienna since April.

"Bridging the gaps requires decisions that mainly the other party (Washington) has to take. I hope in the next round we will travel this short distance - albeit a difficult one," Araqchi said.

Condemning the recent presidential election, and calling the upcoming regime under Raisi "regime of brutal hangmen" Iran’s arch-enemy Israel said that world powers should not negotiate a new nuclear deal with them.

"(His) election is, I would say, the last chance for world powers to wake up before returning to the nuclear agreement, and understand who they are doing business with," Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in a statement.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/ebrahim-raisi-hailed-as-irans-new-president-392723/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The new Iran president Raisi, has never publicly addressed allegations around his role in what the United States and human rights groups have called the extrajudicial executions of thousands of political prisoners in 1988.

Bennett, has hewed to the opposition of his conservative predecessor Benjamin Netanyahu against the nuclear deal, whose curbs on projects with atomic bomb-making potential, Israel deems to be too lenient.

On Sunday, negotiators from Iran and the P5+1 countries adjourned their talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal; Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and returned to their respective country capitals for consultations, as according to the Iran delegation chief, remaining differences cannot be overcome so easily.

On Sunday, negotiators from Iran and the P5+1 countries adjourned their talks on reviving the 2015 nuclear deal; Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), and returned to their respective country capitals for consultations, as according to the Iran delegation chief, remaining differences cannot be overcome so easily. Talking to Iranian state TV from Vienna, Abbas Araqchi said, "We are now closer than ever to an agreement but the distance that exists between us and an agreement remains and bridging it is not an easy job," "We will return to Tehran tonight." He added. Also read | Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme As of yet, it is still unclear when the formal negotiations will resume. Parties to the pact wrapped up, after more than a week of negotiations in this latest round. According to the Russian envoy though no date for a resumption in negotiations had been set, for now, but that they could return in about 10 days. Enrique Mora, the European Union political director who has been coordinating the discussions told reporters in Vienna, that "We have made progress this week, in this sixth round. We are closer to a deal but we are not still there. We are closer than we were one week ago but we are not still there,". Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner, ultraconservative cleric, on Friday secured victory in Iran’s presidential elections, replacing pragmatist Hassan Rouhani. This is not expected to disrupt Iran’s efforts to rebuild the nuclear pact and escape tough US financial and oil sanctions, as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has the final say on all the major policy decisions. Also read | Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme Under the Donald Trump administration, Washington exited from the deal in 2018 and reimposed sanctions on Tehran. In an attempt to iron out steps both the United States and Iran must take on nuclear activities and sanctions, so as to return to full compliance with the pact, negotiations have been underway in Vienna since April. "Bridging the gaps requires decisions that mainly the other party (Washington) has to take. I hope in the next round we will travel this short distance - albeit a difficult one," Araqchi said. Condemning the recent presidential election, and calling the upcoming regime under Raisi "regime of brutal hangmen" Iran’s arch-enemy Israel said that world powers should not negotiate a new nuclear deal with them. "(His) election is, I would say, the last chance for world powers to wake up before returning to the nuclear agreement, and understand who they are doing business with," Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett said in a statement. The new Iran president Raisi, has never publicly addressed allegations around his role in what the United States and human rights groups have called the extrajudicial executions of thousands of political prisoners in 1988. Bennett, has hewed to the opposition of his conservative predecessor Benjamin Netanyahu against the nuclear deal, whose curbs on projects with atomic bomb-making potential, Israel deems to be too lenient.

Nuclear talks adjourned for consultations in respective capitals, resumption dates unclear

Sri Lanka's military launched an investigation Sunday after social media posts showed soldiers forcing minority Muslims to kneel on the streets as a punishment for flouting lockdown rules.

Armed troops ordered Muslim civilians to raise their hands in the air while kneeling on a road in the town of Eravur, about 300 kilometres (190 miles) east of the capital Colombo.

Local residents said they considered the order to be degrading and humiliating, while officials acknowledged that troops had no power to mete out such punishments.

The victims were on their way to two restaurants to buy food.

"An initial Military Police investigation has already commenced after certain photos went viral depicting an alleged harassment in the Eravur area," the army said in a statement.

It said the officer in charge had been removed and the soldiers involved ordered to leave the town.

"The army will adopt the strictest disciplinary action against all errant army personnel," the military added, in a rare display of willingness to investigate its own.

Sri Lanka is under a month-long lockdown to contain the third wave of coronavirus infections. The number of deaths from the virus has increased more than fourfold to 2,531 since the start of the wave in mid-April.

The military, which is facing allegations of war crimes in a decades-long Tamil separatist war that ended in 2009, has been deployed to help police and health authorities enforce virus restrictions.

Successive governments have denied that troops killed around 40,000 civilians in the final stages of the separatist war, which claimed more than 100,000 lives in total between 1972 and 2009.

Sri Lanka's military launched an investigation Sunday after social media posts showed soldiers forcing minority Muslims to kneel on the streets as a punishment for flouting lockdown rules.

Sri Lanka's military launched an investigation Sunday after social media posts showed soldiers forcing minority Muslims to kneel on the streets as a punishment for flouting lockdown rules. Armed troops ordered Muslim civilians to raise their hands in the air while kneeling on a road in the town of Eravur, about 300 kilometres (190 miles) east of the capital Colombo. Local residents said they considered the order to be degrading and humiliating, while officials acknowledged that troops had no power to mete out such punishments. The victims were on their way to two restaurants to buy food. "An initial Military Police investigation has already commenced after certain photos went viral depicting an alleged harassment in the Eravur area," the army said in a statement. It said the officer in charge had been removed and the soldiers involved ordered to leave the town. "The army will adopt the strictest disciplinary action against all errant army personnel," the military added, in a rare display of willingness to investigate its own. Sri Lanka is under a month-long lockdown to contain the third wave of coronavirus infections. The number of deaths from the virus has increased more than fourfold to 2,531 since the start of the wave in mid-April. The military, which is facing allegations of war crimes in a decades-long Tamil separatist war that ended in 2009, has been deployed to help police and health authorities enforce virus restrictions. Successive governments have denied that troops killed around 40,000 civilians in the final stages of the separatist war, which claimed more than 100,000 lives in total between 1972 and 2009.

Sri Lanka investigates troops over 'humiliation' of Muslims

The United States is preparing fresh sanctions against Russia over the near-fatal poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, a top White House advisor warned Sunday.

Jailed opposition leader Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's most prominent opponent, was arrested in January upon returning to Russia after recovering from a poisoning he says was orchestrated by Moscow.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-us-russia-fight-it-out-or-resolve-issues-377626">Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues?</a>

"We have sanctioned Russia for the poisoning of Alexei Navalny... We rallied European allies in a joint effort to impose costs on Russia for the use of a chemical agent against one of their citizens on Russian soil," US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/joe-biden">Joe Biden's</a> national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN's "State of the Union."

The United States in March imposed sanctions on the director of Russia's FSB security agency after finding it carried out the poisoning of Navalny.

"We are preparing another package of sanctions to apply in this case, as well. We've shown along the way we're not going to pull our punches," Sullivan added.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-russia-of-consequences-if-alexei-navalny-dies-378474">US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies</a>

He spoke days after Biden and Putin met in Geneva for their first summit, where the leaders sought to cool tensions in the combustible US-Russian relationship.

Diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington had all but broken down since Biden took office in January.

After Biden likened Putin to a "killer," Russia in March took the rare step of recalling its ambassador Anatoly Antonov. The US envoy, John Sullivan, likewise returned to Washington.

Putin rejected criticism of his treatment of opponents, many high-profile critics have been killed in Russia during his rule and the media is almost entirely muzzled, saying that the United States had bigger problems.

A day after the summit, the Kremlin was guarded about future dialogue with Washington.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-imposes-sanctions-on-russia-over-poisoning-of-kremlin-critic-navalny-367479">US imposes sanctions on Russia over poisoning of Kremlin critic Navalny</a>

"We are ready to continue this dialogue to the same extent as the American side is," Putin said in televised remarks.&nbsp;

The Russian leader said the meeting was "quite friendly" and that he and Biden "were able to understand each other on key issues."

The United States is preparing fresh sanctions against Russia over the near-fatal poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, a top White House advisor warned Sunday.

The United States is preparing fresh sanctions against Russia over the near-fatal poisoning of Kremlin critic Alexei Navalny, a top White House advisor warned Sunday. Jailed opposition leader Navalny, President Vladimir Putin's most prominent opponent, was arrested in January upon returning to Russia after recovering from a poisoning he says was orchestrated by Moscow. Also read | Will US, Russia fight it out or resolve issues? "We have sanctioned Russia for the poisoning of Alexei Navalny... We rallied European allies in a joint effort to impose costs on Russia for the use of a chemical agent against one of their citizens on Russian soil," US President Joe Biden's national security advisor Jake Sullivan told CNN's "State of the Union." The United States in March imposed sanctions on the director of Russia's FSB security agency after finding it carried out the poisoning of Navalny. "We are preparing another package of sanctions to apply in this case, as well. We've shown along the way we're not going to pull our punches," Sullivan added. Also read | US warns Russia of 'consequences' if Alexei Navalny dies He spoke days after Biden and Putin met in Geneva for their first summit, where the leaders sought to cool tensions in the combustible US-Russian relationship. Diplomatic relations between Moscow and Washington had all but broken down since Biden took office in January. After Biden likened Putin to a "killer," Russia in March took the rare step of recalling its ambassador Anatoly Antonov. The US envoy, John Sullivan, likewise returned to Washington. Putin rejected criticism of his treatment of opponents, many high-profile critics have been killed in Russia during his rule and the media is almost entirely muzzled, saying that the United States had bigger problems. A day after the summit, the Kremlin was guarded about future dialogue with Washington. Also read | US imposes sanctions on Russia over poisoning of Kremlin critic Navalny "We are ready to continue this dialogue to the same extent as the American side is," Putin said in televised remarks. The Russian leader said the meeting was "quite friendly" and that he and Biden "were able to understand each other on key issues."

US says preparing new Russia sanctions over Navalny poisoning

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged.

Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year

"The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement.

The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance.

"The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said.

However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan.

Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani will meet US President Joe Biden on June 25, the White House said on Sunday. Abdullah Abdullah, chairman of Afghanistan's High Council for National Reconciliation will also be present. The meeting comes at a time when fighting between the Taliban and Afghan security forces has surged. Biden has already announced that all US troops in Afghanistan would be withdrawn before September 11 this year "The visit by President Ghani and Dr. Abdullah will highlight the enduring partnership between the United States and Afghanistan as the military drawdown continues," the White House said in a statement. The statement added that Washington was committed to supporting Afghan people by providing diplomatic, economic and humanitarian assistance. "The United States will remain deeply engaged with the Government of Afghanistan to ensure the country never again becomes a safe haven for terrorist groups who pose a threat to the US homeland," it said. However, the Taliban is taking steps to expand its influence across Afghanistan. Since the United States announced plans in April to pull out all of troops, at least 30 districts have been seized by the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani to meet Joe Biden next week

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks. He added that that the final decision on this issue was up to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"There is still a fair distance to travel on some of the key issues, including on sanctions and on the nuclear commitments that Iran has to make, Sullivan told "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" on ABC television.

The nuclear deal was struck with Iran buy P5+1 powers in 2015. However former US President Donald Trump pulled US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018. Talks were on in Vienna from April this year to revive the nuclear deal, but they were adjourned on Sunday (June 20).

Tehran's delegation chief said negotiators with return to respective capitals for consultations. No date has been made public for resumption of talks.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-nuclear-talks-to-be-adjourned-for-consultations-in-capital-392761">Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in respective capitals</a>

"We will see if the Iranian negotiators come to the next round of talks prepared to make hard choices that they have to make," Sullivan said.

On Friday, Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner won Iran's presidential election. He will take office in early August.

Asked if Raisi's election increased the chances of a deal, Sullivan said the ultimate decision was with the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.&nbsp;

"He was the same person before this election as he is after the election, so ultimately it lies with him and his decision," he said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks.

US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said on Sunday that there were still disagreements between Iran and world powers over reviving 2015 nuclear deal talks. He added that that the final decision on this issue was up to Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "There is still a fair distance to travel on some of the key issues, including on sanctions and on the nuclear commitments that Iran has to make, Sullivan told "This Week with George Stephanopoulos" on ABC television. The nuclear deal was struck with Iran buy P5+1 powers in 2015. However former US President Donald Trump pulled US out of the deal and reimposed crippling sanctions on Iran in 2018. Talks were on in Vienna from April this year to revive the nuclear deal, but they were adjourned on Sunday (June 20). Tehran's delegation chief said negotiators with return to respective capitals for consultations. No date has been made public for resumption of talks. Also Read | Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in respective capitals "We will see if the Iranian negotiators come to the next round of talks prepared to make hard choices that they have to make," Sullivan said. On Friday, Ebrahim Raisi, a hardliner won Iran's presidential election. He will take office in early August. Asked if Raisi's election increased the chances of a deal, Sullivan said the ultimate decision was with the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "He was the same person before this election as he is after the election, so ultimately it lies with him and his decision," he said. (With inputs from agencies)

Disagreements remain in Iran nuclear talks, says US

The Taliban has reiterated that they are in favour of peace talks but added that the way to peace lies in Islamic system. This comes at a time when&nbsp;Afghanistan is witnessing&nbsp;a surge of violence across the country ever since May when the United States military began its final withdrawal. In other news,&nbsp;After ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi&nbsp;won the Iran presidential elections by a huge margin, the country's arch-enemy Israel's newly elected&nbsp;Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has condemned the elections while calling Raisi the 'most&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;president yet' said&nbsp;that his&nbsp;would&nbsp;be "A regime of brutal hangmen". Israel also said that Iran&nbsp;must never be allowed to have weapons of mass destruction, referring to the revamp negotiations for the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal between Iran and P5+1.

Click on headlines to read more

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-system-only-way-to-afghan-peace-taliban-392753">'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/08/24/156235-taliban-1.jpg" />The Taliban says&nbsp;that they are&nbsp;committed to peace talks, but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-pm-bennett-weighs-against-nuclear-talks-with-irans-hangmen-regime-392766">Israel PM Bennett weighs against nuclear talks with Iran's 'hangmen regime'</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/20/199236-naftali-bennett-3.jpg" />Condemning the election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as Iran president,&nbsp;Israel's new Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called Iran&nbsp;"A regime of brutal hangmen".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-nuclear-talks-to-be-adjourned-for-consultations-in-capital-392761">Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in capitals</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/20/199233-untitled-design-2021-06-20t174339565.jpg" />Adjourning the talks on&nbsp;Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA),&nbsp;negotiators from Iran and the P5+1 countries will be returning to their respective country capitals for consultations, as according to the Iran delegation chief, remaining differences cannot be overcome so easily. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-says-irans-raisi-extreme-committed-to-nuclear-programme-392707">Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/19/199152-ebrahim-raisi.jpg" />Condemning Iran's&nbsp;newly-elected president Ebrahim&nbsp;Raisi, Israel said that he was its most&nbsp;extreme&nbsp;president yet and&nbsp;committed&nbsp;to quickly advancing Tehran's&nbsp;nuclear&nbsp;programme.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-seeking-closer-integration-with-mainland-china-lam-says-392745">Hong Kong seeking closer integration with mainland China, Lam says</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/10/15/164986-carrie1.jpg" />Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam in a statement said that Hong Kong's strategy to strengthen the city's global financial hub status is through greater integration with mainland China, now that Beijing has helped restore 'stability' in the city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-compensation-offer-made-over-suez-canal-blockage-lawyer-392773">New compensation offer made over Suez Canal blockage: Lawyer</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/29/189463-untitled-design-5.jpg" />The owners of Ever More, a giant container ship that blocked the Suez Canal in March have made a new offer in a compensation dispute with the canal authority.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-cabinet-orders-inquiry-on-deadly-festival-stampede-392767">Israeli cabinet orders inquiry on deadly festival stampede</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/20/199234-untitled-design-2021-06-20t174938184.jpg" />

Israel's new government has approved an official inquiry into the Mount Meron&nbsp;stampede that took the lives of 45,&nbsp;in April. The incident happened at a Jewish pilgrimage site long deemed dangerously crowded by authorities.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/pope-backs-myanmar-bishops-appeal-for-humanitarian-corridor-392779">Pope backs Myanmar bishops' appeal for humanitarian corridor</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/01/01/176763-untitled-design-21.jpg" />Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russian-envoy-to-us-returns-to-washington-with-optimistic-mindset-ria-392711">Russian envoy to US returns to Washington with optimistic mindset: RIA</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/18/187821-russias-washington-envoy.jpg" />After&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin and his US&nbsp;counterpart Joe Biden agreed to return their respective ambassadors to Washington and Moscow during their talks in Geneva, Russia's ambassador to US, Anatoly Antonov, was in an optimistic mood ahead of his return to Washington, expecting meetings scheduled with US&nbsp;colleagues next week to be constructive.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/myanmar-protesters-wear-flowers-to-mark-suu-kyis-birthday-392735">Myanmar protesters wear flowers to mark Suu Kyi's birthday</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/20/199219-0009cm89c.jpg" />Anti-coup protesters in&nbsp;Myanmar&nbsp;donned flowers in their hair Saturday to mark the birthday of ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains under house arrest and is due to face court again next week.

The Taliban has reiterated that they are in favour of peace talks but added that the way to peace lies in Islamic system. This comes at a time when Afghanistan is witnessing a surge of violence across the country ever since May when the United States military began its final withdrawal.

The Taliban has reiterated that they are in favour of peace talks but added that the way to peace lies in Islamic system. This comes at a time when Afghanistan is witnessing a surge of violence across the country ever since May when the United States military began its final withdrawal. In other news, After ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi won the Iran presidential elections by a huge margin, the country's arch-enemy Israel's newly elected Prime Minister Naftali Bennett has condemned the elections while calling Raisi the 'most extreme president yet' said that his would be "A regime of brutal hangmen". Israel also said that Iran must never be allowed to have weapons of mass destruction, referring to the revamp negotiations for the 2015 JCPOA nuclear deal between Iran and P5+1. Click on headlines to read more 'Islamic system' only way to Afghan peace: Taliban The Taliban says that they are committed to peace talks, but also insisted that a 'genuine Islamic system' in Afghanistan was the only way to end war and ensure rights including those of women. Israel PM Bennett weighs against nuclear talks with Iran's 'hangmen regime' Condemning the election of hardline cleric Ebrahim Raisi as Iran president, Israel's new Prime Minister Naftali Bennett called Iran "A regime of brutal hangmen". Iran says nuclear talks to be adjourned for consultations in capitals Adjourning the talks on Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), negotiators from Iran and the P5+1 countries will be returning to their respective country capitals for consultations, as according to the Iran delegation chief, remaining differences cannot be overcome so easily. Israel says Iran's Raisi extreme, committed to nuclear programme Condemning Iran's newly-elected president Ebrahim Raisi, Israel said that he was its most extreme president yet and committed to quickly advancing Tehran's nuclear programme. Hong Kong seeking closer integration with mainland China, Lam says Hong Kong's Chief Executive Carrie Lam in a statement said that Hong Kong's strategy to strengthen the city's global financial hub status is through greater integration with mainland China, now that Beijing has helped restore 'stability' in the city. New compensation offer made over Suez Canal blockage: Lawyer The owners of Ever More, a giant container ship that blocked the Suez Canal in March have made a new offer in a compensation dispute with the canal authority. Israeli cabinet orders inquiry on deadly festival stampede Israel's new government has approved an official inquiry into the Mount Meron stampede that took the lives of 45, in April. The incident happened at a Jewish pilgrimage site long deemed dangerously crowded by authorities. Pope backs Myanmar bishops' appeal for humanitarian corridor Pope Francis on Sunday made an appeal to Myanmar's military junta to allow air to reach hungry, displace people who have fled the fighting since February 1 coup. He also made an appeal to respect religious sites as places of sanctuary. Russian envoy to US returns to Washington with optimistic mindset: RIA After President Vladimir Putin and his US counterpart Joe Biden agreed to return their respective ambassadors to Washington and Moscow during their talks in Geneva, Russia's ambassador to US, Anatoly Antonov, was in an optimistic mood ahead of his return to Washington, expecting meetings scheduled with US colleagues next week to be constructive. Myanmar protesters wear flowers to mark Suu Kyi's birthday Anti-coup protesters in Myanmar donned flowers in their hair Saturday to mark the birthday of ousted civilian leader Aung San Suu Kyi, who remains under house arrest and is due to face court again next week.

Top 10 world news: Taliban says Islamic system the way for Afghan peace, Israel condemns Iran presidential elections & more

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