Myanmar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday rejected a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an arms embargo against the Southeast Asian nation and condemning the military's February seizure of power.

Myanmar described the resolution, which passed Friday and is not legally binding, as being "based on one-sided sweeping allegations and false assumptions."&nbsp;The statement issued in the capital Naypyitaw said the Foreign Ministry had sent letters of objection to the UN secretary-general and the General Assembly's president.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/united-nations-calls-for-halt-of-weapons-to-myanmar-392513">United Nations calls for halt of weapons to Myanmar</a>

The resolution reflected a broad international consensus condemning the takeover that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government. It called on the military junta to restore the country's democratic transition, condemned its "excessive and lethal violence"&nbsp;since the takeover and called on all countries "to prevent the flow of arms into Myanmar."

The resolution also called on Myanmar's armed forces to immediately and unconditionally release Suu Kyi, President Win Myint and other officials and politicians detained after the coup, as well as "all those who have been arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested."

The measure was approved with 119 countries voting 'yes,'&nbsp;Belarus,&nbsp;a major arms supplier to Myanmar,&nbsp;voting 'no'&nbsp;and 36 countries abstaining, including Myanmar's neighbours China and India, along with Russia.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-calls-un-arms-ban-resolution-on-myanmar-as-haste-course-of-action-392551">India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action'</a>

Myanmar's UN&nbsp;Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who in February denounced the military takeover, voted 'yes'&nbsp;and urged the international community 'to take the strongest possible action to immediately end the military coup.'

The Foreign Ministry statement said it considers Kyaw Moe Tun as having been dismissed from his position and noted that he has been charged with treason in Myanmar.

"Accordingly, his statement, participation and action in the meeting are illegitimate and unacceptable and Myanmar strongly rejects his participation and statements,"&nbsp;it said.

"?While Myanmar embraces constructive advice by the international community in addressing the challenges that Myanmar is facing, any attempt infringing on the state sovereignty and interference in the internal affairs of Myanmar will not be accepted,"&nbsp;said the statement.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/suu-kyis-trial-set-to-start-in-myanmar-junta-rejects-un-rights-chiefs-statement-391331">Suu Kyi's trial set to start in Myanmar, junta rejects UN rights chief's statement</a>

The more powerful UN&nbsp;Security Council, whose resolutions are legally binding, has adopted several statements on Myanmar, including condemning the use of violence against peaceful protesters, calling on the military to restore the democratic transition and exercise utmost restraint&nbsp;and "on all sides to refrain from violence."

But it has never been able to condemn the coup or authorize an arms embargo or other sanctions because of an almost certain veto by China, and possibly Russia.

Myanmar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday rejected a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an arms embargo against the Southeast Asian nation and condemning the military's February seizure of power.

Myanmar's Foreign Ministry on Saturday rejected a UN General Assembly resolution calling for an arms embargo against the Southeast Asian nation and condemning the military's February seizure of power. Myanmar described the resolution, which passed Friday and is not legally binding, as being "based on one-sided sweeping allegations and false assumptions." The statement issued in the capital Naypyitaw said the Foreign Ministry had sent letters of objection to the UN secretary-general and the General Assembly's president. Also read | United Nations calls for halt of weapons to Myanmar The resolution reflected a broad international consensus condemning the takeover that ousted Aung San Suu Kyi's elected government. It called on the military junta to restore the country's democratic transition, condemned its "excessive and lethal violence" since the takeover and called on all countries "to prevent the flow of arms into Myanmar." The resolution also called on Myanmar's armed forces to immediately and unconditionally release Suu Kyi, President Win Myint and other officials and politicians detained after the coup, as well as "all those who have been arbitrarily detained, charged or arrested." The measure was approved with 119 countries voting 'yes,' Belarus, a major arms supplier to Myanmar, voting 'no' and 36 countries abstaining, including Myanmar's neighbours China and India, along with Russia. Also read | India calls UN arms ban resolution on Myanmar as 'haste course of action' Myanmar's UN Ambassador Kyaw Moe Tun, who in February denounced the military takeover, voted 'yes' and urged the international community 'to take the strongest possible action to immediately end the military coup.' The Foreign Ministry statement said it considers Kyaw Moe Tun as having been dismissed from his position and noted that he has been charged with treason in Myanmar. "Accordingly, his statement, participation and action in the meeting are illegitimate and unacceptable and Myanmar strongly rejects his participation and statements," it said. "?While Myanmar embraces constructive advice by the international community in addressing the challenges that Myanmar is facing, any attempt infringing on the state sovereignty and interference in the internal affairs of Myanmar will not be accepted," said the statement. Also read | Suu Kyi's trial set to start in Myanmar, junta rejects UN rights chief's statement The more powerful UN Security Council, whose resolutions are legally binding, has adopted several statements on Myanmar, including condemning the use of violence against peaceful protesters, calling on the military to restore the democratic transition and exercise utmost restraint and "on all sides to refrain from violence." But it has never been able to condemn the coup or authorize an arms embargo or other sanctions because of an almost certain veto by China, and possibly Russia.

Myanmar rejects UN resolution urging arms embargo

Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid".

On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year

PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement".

"The government refuses to receive vaccines that are about to expire," Melhem said, in a statement carried by the official WAFA news agency.

Israeli health ministry said that the vaccines were "completely valid" although the prime minister's office acknowledged Friday that they were "about to expire", without specifying the use-by date

"The Palestinian health ministry received Pfizer vaccines that were valid, with expiration dates that were known, agreed on and that matched the agreement between the two sides," the ministry said.&nbsp;

Israel has launched a sweeping vaccination campaign after obtaining millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine. 
More than 55 percent of Israel's population -- some 5.1 million people -- have received both doses of the vaccine.

Far fewer Palestinians -- just over 270,000 people -- have received their two doses in the West Bank and Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry.

(With inputs from agencies)

Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid". On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement".

Israel's health ministry on Saturday insisted that Covid-19 vaccine doses the Palestinians rejected as about to expire were "completely valid". On Friday, Palestinian authority called off a deal according to which Israel would provide it 1 million vaccine jabs in exchange for doses from Pfizer that Palestinians are scheduled to receive later this year PA spokesman Ibrahim Melhem said an initial delivery of some 90,000 Pfizer doses failed to conform "to the specifications contained in the agreement, and accordingly prime minister Mohammad Shtayyeh instructed the minister of health to cancel the agreement". "The government refuses to receive vaccines that are about to expire," Melhem said, in a statement carried by the official WAFA news agency. Israeli health ministry said that the vaccines were "completely valid" although the prime minister's office acknowledged Friday that they were "about to expire", without specifying the use-by date "The Palestinian health ministry received Pfizer vaccines that were valid, with expiration dates that were known, agreed on and that matched the agreement between the two sides," the ministry said. Israel has launched a sweeping vaccination campaign after obtaining millions of doses of the Pfizer vaccine. More than 55 percent of Israel's population -- some 5.1 million people -- have received both doses of the vaccine. Far fewer Palestinians -- just over 270,000 people -- have received their two doses in the West Bank and Gaza, according to the Palestinian health ministry. (With inputs from agencies)

Vaccine doses Palestinians rejected were 'completely valid': Israel

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of&nbsp;what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago.

Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs. They were discovered in a place where new fossils are constantly revealed due to natural phenomena like coastal waters and stormy conditions affecting the cliff.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-finds-coelacanth-a-human-sized-dinosaur-era-fish-can-live-for-100-years-392445">Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years</a>

The credit behind this discovery goes to a scientist from the University of Portsmouth and a curator from Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, this discovery is the last record of dinosaurs in Britain.

David Martill, a Professor of Palaeobiology, said that “This is the first time dinosaur footprints have been found in strata known as the ‘Folkestone Formation’ and it’s quite an extraordinary discovery because these dinosaurs would have been the last to roam in this country before becoming extinct,".

"They were walking around close to where the White Cliffs of Dover are now - next time you’re on a ferry and you see those magnificent cliffs just imagine that!"

Attributed to a variety of dinosaurs species, the footprints show that 110 million years ago, at the end of the Early Cretaceous period, there was a relatively high diversity of dinosaurs in southern England.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-study-indicates-covid-resulting-in-long-term-loss-of-grey-matter-392567">UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter</a>

According to a paper published in the journal Proceedings of the Geologists Association, the footprint fossils were formed when sediments filled up the impression left behind by a dinosaurs foot pushing into the ground, a process which then also preserves it.

These footprints are believed to be from the following dinosaurs; Ankylosaurs, a rugged-looking armoured dinosaur which is believed to have been like living tanks; Theropods, a three-toed dinosaur similar to the Tyrannosaurus rex, which also consumed flesh; and Ornithopods, ‘bird-hipped’ plant-eating dinosaurs, that had a pelvic structure a little bit similar to birds.

While most of the footprint findings are isolated, one discovery comprises six footprints. Classified as a trackway, this means that there is more than one consecutive print from the same animal.

Measuring 80 cm in width and 65 cm in length, the largest footprint found, has been identified as that of an Iguanodon-like dinosaur.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/churchill-painting-from-onassis-superyacht-to-auction-in-new-york-392517">Churchill painting from Onassis superyacht to auction in New York</a>

Growing up to 10 metres in length, Iguanodon were plant-eaters, and they walked on both two legs or on all fours.

"To find such an array of species in one place is fascinating. These dinosaurs probably took advantage of the tidal exposures on coastal foreshores, perhaps foraging for food or taking advantage of clear migration routes," explained Martill. 
 
(With inputs from agencies)

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago. Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs.

Researchers in the UK have discovered footprints of what may be the very last dinosaurs to walk on the United Kingdom soil, some 110 million years ago. Discovered in the cliffs and on the foreshore in Folkestone, Kent, these footprints are believed to belong to at least six different species of dinosaurs. They were discovered in a place where new fossils are constantly revealed due to natural phenomena like coastal waters and stormy conditions affecting the cliff. Also read | Study finds Coelacanth, a human-sized Dinosaur era fish can live for 100 years The credit behind this discovery goes to a scientist from the University of Portsmouth and a curator from Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, this discovery is the last record of dinosaurs in Britain. David Martill, a Professor of Palaeobiology, said that “This is the first time dinosaur footprints have been found in strata known as the ‘Folkestone Formation’ and it’s quite an extraordinary discovery because these dinosaurs would have been the last to roam in this country before becoming extinct,". "They were walking around close to where the White Cliffs of Dover are now - next time you’re on a ferry and you see those magnificent cliffs just imagine that!" Attributed to a variety of dinosaurs species, the footprints show that 110 million years ago, at the end of the Early Cretaceous period, there was a relatively high diversity of dinosaurs in southern England. Also read | UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter According to a paper published in the journal Proceedings of the Geologists Association, the footprint fossils were formed when sediments filled up the impression left behind by a dinosaurs foot pushing into the ground, a process which then also preserves it. These footprints are believed to be from the following dinosaurs; Ankylosaurs, a rugged-looking armoured dinosaur which is believed to have been like living tanks; Theropods, a three-toed dinosaur similar to the Tyrannosaurus rex, which also consumed flesh; and Ornithopods, ‘bird-hipped’ plant-eating dinosaurs, that had a pelvic structure a little bit similar to birds. While most of the footprint findings are isolated, one discovery comprises six footprints. Classified as a trackway, this means that there is more than one consecutive print from the same animal. Measuring 80 cm in width and 65 cm in length, the largest footprint found, has been identified as that of an Iguanodon-like dinosaur. Also read | Churchill painting from Onassis superyacht to auction in New York Growing up to 10 metres in length, Iguanodon were plant-eaters, and they walked on both two legs or on all fours. "To find such an array of species in one place is fascinating. These dinosaurs probably took advantage of the tidal exposures on coastal foreshores, perhaps foraging for food or taking advantage of clear migration routes," explained Martill. (With inputs from agencies)

Discovered; Footprints of the very last Dinosaurs to walk on UK ground

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition.

The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said.

"The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space.

Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait.

These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed.

The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been "in vain".

"It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths.

Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Huthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN.

The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government.

The Huthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire.

(With inputs from agencies)

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition.

Saudi Arabian state media on Saturday said that the kingdom's air defences destroyed 10 drones launched by Houthi rebels. The media reports quoted Saudi Arabia-led military coalition. The official Saudi Press Agency reported that seven of the drones targetted regions in southern Saudi Arabia. Three targeted the Khamis Mushait region, also in the south and home to military installations, it said. "The interception operations were successful," the coalition said in a statement, adding that the drones were packed with explosives and seven were knocked out in Yemeni air space. Earlier on Saturday, Iran-backed Houthi rebels tweeted that one drone was launched towards King Khaled air base in Khamis Mushait. These developments come as diplomatic push by the United Nations, the US to secure Yemen ceasefire have failed. The outgoing UN envoy for Yemen Martin Griffiths on Tuesday told the Security Council his own efforts over the past three years to end the war have been "in vain". "It is with deep regret that I report today that the parties have not overcome their differences," said Griffiths. Yemen has been devastated by a civil war between the Saudi-backed government and the Iran-backed Huthis since 2014, and millions of civilians are on the brink of famine, according to the UN. The Saudi-led coalition has controlled Yemen's airspace since it launched a military campaign in 2015 to prop up the country's internationally recognised government. The Huthis have repeatedly demanded the re-opening of Sanaa airport before any ceasefire. (With inputs from agencies)

Saudi defences intercept 10 Houthi drones, says state media

Hundreds of women rallied in Istanbul on Saturday and urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to reverse the decision from withdrawing from anti-violence treaty. Turkey formally exits from the treaty on July 1.

In March, there was outrage against Erdogan as he pulled out of the world's first binding treaty to prevent and combat violence against women, known as the Istanbul Convention.

The anger has not subsided. Other than Saturday's rally, women's groups have planned to hold a big protest on July 1. Smaller protests have been planned in the meanwhile.

Over 1,000 women from across Turkey &nbsp;took part in the demonstration on the Asian side of Istanbul surrounded by a heavy police presence, an AFP correspondent said.

Some held rainbow flags while others held placards saying: "Istanbul Convention is ours."

"Our hope is always rooted in our struggles, in our organisations," Melek Ondas, of the Women's Council association, said, adding that women came from 70 provinces to Istanbul.

"We believe in the strength of our organisations. And whether the decision is overturned or not, we will continue our struggle in every way possible," she told AFP.

The 2011 Istanbul Convention, signed by 45 countries and the European Union, requires governments to adopt legislation linked to the prosecution of domestic violence including marital rape and female genital mutilation.

Women's rights organisations accuse the government of withdrawing from the treaty to appease conservatives who claimed the treaty damaged family unity.

Conservatives also suggested references to equality in the treaty were used by the LGBT community to gain broader acceptance in Turkish society.

But critics of Erdogan's decision say the withdrawal puts women in Turkey at greater risk in a country where violence against women is prevalent.

Last year, 300 women were murdered according to the rights group We Will Stop Femicide Platform, while 177 have been killed so far this year.

(With inputs from agencies)

Hundreds of women rallied in Istanbul on Saturday and urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to reverse the decision from withdrawing from anti-violence treaty.

Hundreds of women rallied in Istanbul on Saturday and urged Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to reverse the decision from withdrawing from anti-violence treaty. Turkey formally exits from the treaty on July 1. In March, there was outrage against Erdogan as he pulled out of the world's first binding treaty to prevent and combat violence against women, known as the Istanbul Convention. The anger has not subsided. Other than Saturday's rally, women's groups have planned to hold a big protest on July 1. Smaller protests have been planned in the meanwhile. Over 1,000 women from across Turkey took part in the demonstration on the Asian side of Istanbul surrounded by a heavy police presence, an AFP correspondent said. Some held rainbow flags while others held placards saying: "Istanbul Convention is ours." "Our hope is always rooted in our struggles, in our organisations," Melek Ondas, of the Women's Council association, said, adding that women came from 70 provinces to Istanbul. "We believe in the strength of our organisations. And whether the decision is overturned or not, we will continue our struggle in every way possible," she told AFP. The 2011 Istanbul Convention, signed by 45 countries and the European Union, requires governments to adopt legislation linked to the prosecution of domestic violence including marital rape and female genital mutilation. Women's rights organisations accuse the government of withdrawing from the treaty to appease conservatives who claimed the treaty damaged family unity. Conservatives also suggested references to equality in the treaty were used by the LGBT community to gain broader acceptance in Turkish society. But critics of Erdogan's decision say the withdrawal puts women in Turkey at greater risk in a country where violence against women is prevalent. Last year, 300 women were murdered according to the rights group We Will Stop Femicide Platform, while 177 have been killed so far this year. (With inputs from agencies)

Turkish women rally in Istanbul to send message to Erdogan

Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi has won the Iran presidential elections by a huge margin, of the 90 per cent counted ballots, he won 62 per cent. According to reports, the majority of voters in&nbsp;Iran have shunned these presidential&nbsp;elections, a move hailed by&nbsp;exiled&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;groups&nbsp;as a blow to the 'country's theocratic system'.&nbsp;Only&nbsp;a day after the two countries announced a vaccine swap deal, the Palestinian Authority, has cancelled the deal&nbsp;to receive soon-to-expire COVID-19 vaccines from Israel&nbsp;after an initial Israeli shipment showed an expiration date sooner than had been agreed. As part of this deal, Israel was to send up to 1.4 million Pfizer-BioNTech doses to the PA, in exchange for receiving a reciprocal number of doses from the PA later this year. In other news, in a move to ease tensions with Iran, the Pentagon in the US has acknowledged that the Joe Biden administration was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East.

Click on headlines to read more

<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>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/19/199152-ebrahim-raisi.jpg" />

Winning 62 per cent of the counted 90 per cent ballots, Ebrahim Raisi,&nbsp;an ultraconservative cleric was declared winner of Saturday's presidential election in Iran.

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<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/01/30/126627-pentagon.JPG" />The&nbsp;Pentagon&nbsp;said Friday it was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East, confirming a Wall Street Journal report that eight Patriot batteries were being moved out from the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghan-president-replaces-defence-minister-as-taliban-gains-ground-392617">Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/11/24/170963-untitled-design-27.jpg" />With Taliban continuously pressing on to capture new territory in Afghanistan, the country's President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/exclusive-india-pak-nsa-to-be-in-dushanbe-next-week-for-sco-nsas-meet-392555">Exclusive: India, Pak NSA to be in Dushanbe next week for SCO NSAs meet</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2018/10/08/71983-AjitDoval-kpF--621x414%40LiveMint.jpg" />India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Pakistani NSA Moeed Yusuf along with NSAs of other countries will be in Dushanbe, Tajikistan next week for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO in-person meeting.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-cancel-deal-for-near-expired-covid-19-vaccines-from-israel-392515">Palestinians cancel deal for near-expired COVID-19 vaccines from Israel</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/03/03/185318-covid-vaccine.jpg" />The Palestinian Authority (PA) cancelled a deal on Friday to receive soon-to-expire COVID-19 vaccines from Israel after an initial Israeli shipment showed an expiration date sooner than had been agreed, the PA health minister said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-promises-billions-in-public-spending-ahead-of-polls-392628">Putin promises billions in public spending ahead of polls</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/05/197412-vladimir-putin-2.jpg" />Ahead of September parlimentary polls&nbsp;in Russia,&nbsp;President Vladimir Putin has proposed spendings of billions of rubles.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-officially-declares-end-to-second-ebola-outbreak-in-guinea-392605">WHO officially declares end to second Ebola outbreak in Guinea</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/05/17/140852-who-reuters.jpg" />World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially announced the end of Guinea's second Ebola outbreak, which was declared on February 14.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/liberian-rebel-sentenced-in-switzerland-for-war-crimes-cannibalism-392569">Liberian rebel sentenced in Switzerland for war crimes, cannibalism</a><img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2020/09/27/161994-switzerland.JPG" />A&nbsp;Liberian&nbsp;rebel commander was sentenced in Switzerland to 20 years in jail on Friday for rape, killings and an act of cannibalism, in one of the first-ever convictions over the West African country's civil war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-study-indicates-covid-resulting-in-long-term-loss-of-grey-matter-392567">UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2021/06/06/197468-untitled-design-23.jpg" />A new study has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from COVID-19', the&nbsp;UK study, analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-displacement-numbers-increase-to-over-82-million-392540">Watch:&nbsp;Global displacement numbers increase to over 82 Million&nbsp;</a>

<iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/global-displacement-numbers-increase-to-over-82-million-392540/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi has won the Iran presidential elections by a huge margin, of the 90 per cent counted ballots, he won 62 per cent. According to reports, the majority of voters in Iran have shunned these presidential elections, a move hailed by exiled opposition groups as a blow to the 'country's theocratic system'.

Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi has won the Iran presidential elections by a huge margin, of the 90 per cent counted ballots, he won 62 per cent. According to reports, the majority of voters in Iran have shunned these presidential elections, a move hailed by exiled opposition groups as a blow to the 'country's theocratic system'. Only a day after the two countries announced a vaccine swap deal, the Palestinian Authority, has cancelled the deal to receive soon-to-expire COVID-19 vaccines from Israel after an initial Israeli shipment showed an expiration date sooner than had been agreed. As part of this deal, Israel was to send up to 1.4 million Pfizer-BioNTech doses to the PA, in exchange for receiving a reciprocal number of doses from the PA later this year. In other news, in a move to ease tensions with Iran, the Pentagon in the US has acknowledged that the Joe Biden administration was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East. Click on headlines to read more Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election Winning 62 per cent of the counted 90 per cent ballots, Ebrahim Raisi, an ultraconservative cleric was declared winner of Saturday's presidential election in Iran. US cutting forces, missile batteries in Middle East The Pentagon said Friday it was cutting the number of troops and air defence units deployed to the Middle East, confirming a Wall Street Journal report that eight Patriot batteries were being moved out from the region. Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground With Taliban continuously pressing on to capture new territory in Afghanistan, the country's President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. Exclusive: India, Pak NSA to be in Dushanbe next week for SCO NSAs meet India's National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, Pakistani NSA Moeed Yusuf along with NSAs of other countries will be in Dushanbe, Tajikistan next week for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization or SCO in-person meeting. Palestinians cancel deal for near-expired COVID-19 vaccines from Israel The Palestinian Authority (PA) cancelled a deal on Friday to receive soon-to-expire COVID-19 vaccines from Israel after an initial Israeli shipment showed an expiration date sooner than had been agreed, the PA health minister said. Putin promises billions in public spending ahead of polls Ahead of September parlimentary polls in Russia, President Vladimir Putin has proposed spendings of billions of rubles. WHO officially declares end to second Ebola outbreak in Guinea World Health Organisation (WHO) has officially announced the end of Guinea's second Ebola outbreak, which was declared on February 14. Liberian rebel sentenced in Switzerland for war crimes, cannibalismA Liberian rebel commander was sentenced in Switzerland to 20 years in jail on Friday for rape, killings and an act of cannibalism, in one of the first-ever convictions over the West African country's civil war. UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter A new study has revealed that there is a 'substantial loss of grey matter in those who recovered from COVID-19', the UK study, analyzed brain scans before and after the deadly coronavirus infection. Watch: Global displacement numbers increase to over 82 Million

Top 10 world news: Ebrahim Raisi to be next Iran president, Afghan Prez replaces defense minister due to Taliban threat & more

The majority of voters in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;shunned presidential&nbsp;elections&nbsp;won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi,&nbsp;exiled&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system.

Raisi won 62 per cent of the&nbsp;vote&nbsp;with about 90 per cent of ballots counted from Friday's&nbsp;election, Iranian authorities said. Turnout figures have yet to be released.

Iranian&nbsp;opposition&nbsp;groups based abroad had urged a&nbsp;boycott&nbsp;of the poll, which was held after the most prominent rivals to Raisi were either disqualified in pre-election&nbsp;vetting or withdrew.

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>

Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the National Council of Resistance of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;(NCRI), said the "nationwide&nbsp;boycott" was the "greatest political and social blow" to the system led by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

"The&nbsp;boycott&nbsp;proved and showed the world that the Iranian people's only&nbsp;vote&nbsp;is to overthrow this mediaeval regime," she was quoted by the NCRI as saying.

'Unity and solidarity'&nbsp;

The NCRI, in accusations backed by leading human rights groups, says that Raisi was part of a death commission that sent thousands of&nbsp;jailed opponents to their deaths within a few months in the summer of 1988.

Most of those killed were supporters of the People's Mujahedin Organisation of&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;(MEK/PMOI) whose political wing is the NCRI. It backed Saddam Hussein's Iraq in the 1980-1988 war with&nbsp;Iran.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/judge-under-us-sanctions-set-to-take-over-iran-presidency-392512">Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency</a>

The MEK believed that the actual turnout was 10 per cent and the authorities would inflate it by a factor of five in an "astronomical fabrication", the NCRI said.

This assessment was based on reports of 1,200 witnesses from 400 cities in&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;and more than 3,500 video clips from polling stations, it said, without indicating how the figure had been calculated or giving further numerical proof.

Reza Pahlavi, the son of deposed shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and heir to the throne before the 1979 Islamic revolution, wrote on his official Twitter channel that Iranians had shown "unity and solidarity" by "boycotting and saying no to the authoritarian regime in&nbsp;Iran."

"You have shown the will and power of the nation. Your freedom is near," he added.

Figures inside&nbsp;Iran&nbsp;had also called for a&nbsp;boycott after the disqualification of prominent candidates in pre-vote&nbsp;vetting by the Guardians Council oversight body.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/iran-presidential-poll-2021-two-candidates-exit-race-on-last-day-of-campaigning-392190/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running, said he would not&nbsp;vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin."

Khamenei however hailed the&nbsp;election&nbsp;however as a victory "in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media."

Amnesty International said Saturday Raisi had "presided over a spiralling crackdown on human rights" while serving as judiciary chief for the past two years and should be investigated for the 1988 killings.

"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&nbsp;Iran," said its Secretary-General Agnes&nbsp;Callamard.

The majority of voters in Iran shunned presidential elections won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, exiled opposition groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system.

The majority of voters in Iran shunned presidential elections won by hardline judiciary chief Ebrahim Raisi, exiled opposition groups said on Saturday, hailing the "boycott" as a blow to the country's theocratic system. Raisi won 62 per cent of the vote with about 90 per cent of ballots counted from Friday's election, Iranian authorities said. Turnout figures have yet to be released. Iranian opposition groups based abroad had urged a boycott of the poll, which was held after the most prominent rivals to Raisi were either disqualified in pre-election vetting or withdrew. Also read | Ultraconservative cleric Ebrahim Raisi wins Iran's presidential election Maryam Rajavi, the leader of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), said the "nationwide boycott" was the "greatest political and social blow" to the system led by supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. "The boycott proved and showed the world that the Iranian people's only vote is to overthrow this mediaeval regime," she was quoted by the NCRI as saying. 'Unity and solidarity' The NCRI, in accusations backed by leading human rights groups, says that Raisi was part of a death commission that sent thousands of jailed opponents to their deaths within a few months in the summer of 1988. Most of those killed were supporters of the People's Mujahedin Organisation of Iran (MEK/PMOI) whose political wing is the NCRI. It backed Saddam Hussein's Iraq in the 1980-1988 war with Iran. Also read | Judge under US sanctions set to take over Iran presidency The MEK believed that the actual turnout was 10 per cent and the authorities would inflate it by a factor of five in an "astronomical fabrication", the NCRI said. This assessment was based on reports of 1,200 witnesses from 400 cities in Iran and more than 3,500 video clips from polling stations, it said, without indicating how the figure had been calculated or giving further numerical proof. Reza Pahlavi, the son of deposed shah Mohammad Reza Pahlavi and heir to the throne before the 1979 Islamic revolution, wrote on his official Twitter channel that Iranians had shown "unity and solidarity" by "boycotting and saying no to the authoritarian regime in Iran." "You have shown the will and power of the nation. Your freedom is near," he added. Figures inside Iran had also called for a boycott after the disqualification of prominent candidates in pre-vote vetting by the Guardians Council oversight body. Populist former president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, one of those barred from running, said he would not vote, declaring in a video message: "I do not want to have a part in this sin." Khamenei however hailed the election however as a victory "in the face of the propaganda of the enemy's mercenary media." Amnesty International said Saturday Raisi had "presided over a spiralling crackdown on human rights" while serving as judiciary chief for the past two years and should be investigated for the 1988 killings. "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," said its Secretary-General Agnes Callamard.

Exiled opposition hails 'boycott' of Iran vote

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress. The parliamentary polls are likely to see the deeply unpopular party struggle.

The party congress took place in a Moscow convention centre. The Russian capital is seeing high number of new Covid cases.

The spending for public support Putin proposed included 50 billion rubles ($687 million) on public transport, 30 billion rubles for repairing roads and 20 billion rubles to clean up rivers, among other spending projects on infrastructure and healthcare.

"The program of the party of the leader has to be the program of the people," the 68-year-old Kremlin chief said in a speech broadcast on state television.

He also said the state would be allocating payments and new forms of support for families starting next month.&nbsp;

"Our task is to significantly increase the prosperity of Russian families and the incomes of our citizens," Putin said.

The gathering, which determines the ruling party's candidates and electoral platform for September's lower house of parliament vote, comes after the party has seen support tumble in recent years amid economic stagnation, entrenched corruption and widespread voter fatigue.

On Friday, state-run pollster VTsIOM published a survey showing that 30 percent of voters support United Russia -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house State Duma elections in 2016.

Navalny neutralised

But the party, which controls a majority of the State Duma, is projecting calm.

"It is a good base of support that can be further increased during the election campaign," party chairman and former president and prime minister Dmitry Medvedev said at the start of the month.

Putin, who came to power in 2000, himself boasts much higher support than his party with an approval rating of 61.5 percent, according to VTsIOM.

The pollster also predicts that three opposition parties that are seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding -- the nationalist LDPR, the Communists and A Just Russia -- will garner around 30 percent of the vote.

Further buoying the Kremlin's prospects in September is the recent dismantling of the movement of Russia's main opposition politician Alexei Navalny.

Barring his organisations from working in the country, a Moscow court earlier this month branded them as "extremist", while Putin signed legislation outlawing staff, members and sponsors of "extremist" groups from running in parliamentary elections.

Critics say the moves were aimed at ensuring that Navalny, who was jailed earlier this year for two-and-a-half years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated, does not spoil September's vote for the Kremlin.

Despite the clampdown, Navalny's allies are promoting his Smart Voting strategy that backs candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked politicians -- a tactic that has seen United Russia lose a number of seats in recent local elections.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Saturday proposed spendings of billions of rubles ahead of parliamentary polls due in September. Putin made the announcement at his United Russia party congress. The parliamentary polls are likely to see the deeply unpopular party struggle. The party congress took place in a Moscow convention centre. The Russian capital is seeing high number of new Covid cases. The spending for public support Putin proposed included 50 billion rubles ($687 million) on public transport, 30 billion rubles for repairing roads and 20 billion rubles to clean up rivers, among other spending projects on infrastructure and healthcare. "The program of the party of the leader has to be the program of the people," the 68-year-old Kremlin chief said in a speech broadcast on state television. He also said the state would be allocating payments and new forms of support for families starting next month. "Our task is to significantly increase the prosperity of Russian families and the incomes of our citizens," Putin said. The gathering, which determines the ruling party's candidates and electoral platform for September's lower house of parliament vote, comes after the party has seen support tumble in recent years amid economic stagnation, entrenched corruption and widespread voter fatigue. On Friday, state-run pollster VTsIOM published a survey showing that 30 percent of voters support United Russia -- a 10-point drop from the last lower house State Duma elections in 2016. Navalny neutralised But the party, which controls a majority of the State Duma, is projecting calm. "It is a good base of support that can be further increased during the election campaign," party chairman and former president and prime minister Dmitry Medvedev said at the start of the month. Putin, who came to power in 2000, himself boasts much higher support than his party with an approval rating of 61.5 percent, according to VTsIOM. The pollster also predicts that three opposition parties that are seen as doing the Kremlin's bidding -- the nationalist LDPR, the Communists and A Just Russia -- will garner around 30 percent of the vote. Further buoying the Kremlin's prospects in September is the recent dismantling of the movement of Russia's main opposition politician Alexei Navalny. Barring his organisations from working in the country, a Moscow court earlier this month branded them as "extremist", while Putin signed legislation outlawing staff, members and sponsors of "extremist" groups from running in parliamentary elections. Critics say the moves were aimed at ensuring that Navalny, who was jailed earlier this year for two-and-a-half years on old fraud charges he says are politically motivated, does not spoil September's vote for the Kremlin. Despite the clampdown, Navalny's allies are promoting his Smart Voting strategy that backs candidates best placed to defeat Kremlin-linked politicians -- a tactic that has seen United Russia lose a number of seats in recent local elections. (With inputs from agencies)

Putin promises billions in public spending ahead of polls

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike on Saturday cancelled all public viewing sites for the summer Olympics, diverting some venues to be <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19 vaccination</a>&nbsp;centres instead.

Foreign spectators are banned from attending the Games, delayed by a year due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">pandemic</a>, but the government and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/tokyo-olympics">Tokyo 2020</a> organisers have for months held off on deciding whether to allow Japanese spectators into the stadiums.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/japan-ending-tokyo-virus-emergency-one-month-before-olympics-392202">Japan ending Tokyo virus emergency one month before Olympics</a>

The ban on public viewing follows the metropolitan government's decision this month to scrap plans for a public viewing site in Yoyogi Park in central Tokyo, converting the venue to a vaccination centre.

"I believe these are necessary measures, when looking from various perspectives, for a successful Olympic and Paralympic Games," Koike told reporters after meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga.

They are to talk on Monday with the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tokyo-2020-crowds-decision-to-be-part-of-wider-ruling-on-sport-coates-390761">Tokyo 2020: Crowds decision to be part of wider ruling on sport: Coates</a>

Japanese medical experts said on Friday that banning spectators at the Olympics was the least risky option for going ahead with the event, while floating the possibility that venues could hold up to 10,000 fans in areas where "quasi-emergency" measures, such as shorter restaurant hours, have been lifted.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike on Saturday cancelled all public viewing sites for the summer Olympics, diverting some venues to be COVID-19 vaccination centres instead.

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike on Saturday cancelled all public viewing sites for the summer Olympics, diverting some venues to be COVID-19 vaccination centres instead. Foreign spectators are banned from attending the Games, delayed by a year due to the pandemic, but the government and Tokyo 2020 organisers have for months held off on deciding whether to allow Japanese spectators into the stadiums. Also read | Japan ending Tokyo virus emergency one month before Olympics The ban on public viewing follows the metropolitan government's decision this month to scrap plans for a public viewing site in Yoyogi Park in central Tokyo, converting the venue to a vaccination centre. "I believe these are necessary measures, when looking from various perspectives, for a successful Olympic and Paralympic Games," Koike told reporters after meeting with Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. They are to talk on Monday with the International Olympic Committee and International Paralympic Committee. Also read | Tokyo 2020: Crowds decision to be part of wider ruling on sport: Coates Japanese medical experts said on Friday that banning spectators at the Olympics was the least risky option for going ahead with the event, while floating the possibility that venues could hold up to 10,000 fans in areas where "quasi-emergency" measures, such as shorter restaurant hours, have been lifted.

Tokyo cancels public viewing sites, some to be vaccination centers

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China.

Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through so-called "vaccine diplomacy", initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses to Taiwan, but is increasing that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million US-made shots around the world.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-to-get-750000-covid-19-vaccine-shots-from-us-389683">Taiwan to get 750,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots from US</a>

China, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory, has repeatedly offered to send coronavirus vaccines to the island, which has been battling a spike in domestic infections. Taipei has expressed concern about the safety of Chinese shots.

The 2.5 million donated doses of the Moderna Inc vaccine will leave Memphis, Tennessee, on a flight belonging to Taiwan's China Airlines early on Saturday and arrive in Taipei on Sunday evening, the senior US administration official said, adding that the prompt delivery was due to experts from both sides being able to work out regulatory issues.

"We are not allocating these doses, or delivering these doses, based on political or economic conditions. We are donating these vaccines with the singular objective of saving lives," the official said.

"Our vaccines do not come with strings attached," the official said, adding Taiwan had "faced unfair challenges in its efforts to acquire vaccines on the global marketplace."

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/if-china-takes-taiwan-its-all-over-haley-urges-us-to-act-strongly-392335/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A deal for Taiwan to purchase vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE fell through this year, with Taiwan's government blaming pressure from Beijing.

China has denied the accusation, saying Taiwan is free to obtain the vaccines through Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract to sell BioNTech's vaccine in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan.

"We believe that these attempts by China to block purchases, for political purposes, are reprehensible," the senior Biden administration official said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-wants-german-vaccines-china-may-be-standing-in-its-way-392037">Taiwan wants German vaccines. China may be standing in its way.</a>

Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order, although infections remain comparatively low despite a rise in domestic cases. Only around 6 per cent&nbsp;of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one shot of a vaccine regimen.

The US shipment comes when Washington has been working with Taipei to create secure supply chains for strategic items such as computer chips, of which Taiwan is a key producer vital for US automobile manufacturers and other industries.

It also comes after Taiwan announced on Friday that it will allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn and semiconductor giant TSMC, to negotiate on its behalf for COVID-19 vaccines.

On Thursday, Jonathan Fritz, a senior State Department official, said that China had been "very aggressively using vaccine donations as a lever to induce more of Taiwan's diplomatic partners to switch recognition."

Beijing has steadily whittled down the number of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, which now stands at just 15 countries.

The United States, which like most countries has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, has watched with alarm the stepped-up tensions with Beijing and Biden's administration has vowed to boost ties with the island, which it is required under US law to supply with the means of defence.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-massed-plane-incursion-near-taiwan-china-says-must-respond-to-collusion-391791">After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion'</a>

This week, Taiwan reported the largest incursion yet by China's air force, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, into its air defence identification zone.

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China.

The United States will ship 2.5 million COVID-19 vaccine doses to Taiwan on Saturday, a senior administration official told Reuters, more than tripling Washington's previous allocation of shots for the island, which has faced increasing political and military pressure from China. Washington, competing with Beijing to deepen geopolitical clout through so-called "vaccine diplomacy", initially had promised to donate 750,000 doses to Taiwan, but is increasing that number as President Joe Biden's administration advances its pledge to send 80 million US-made shots around the world. Also read | Taiwan to get 750,000 COVID-19 vaccine shots from US China, which considers Taiwan an integral part of its territory, has repeatedly offered to send coronavirus vaccines to the island, which has been battling a spike in domestic infections. Taipei has expressed concern about the safety of Chinese shots. The 2.5 million donated doses of the Moderna Inc vaccine will leave Memphis, Tennessee, on a flight belonging to Taiwan's China Airlines early on Saturday and arrive in Taipei on Sunday evening, the senior US administration official said, adding that the prompt delivery was due to experts from both sides being able to work out regulatory issues. "We are not allocating these doses, or delivering these doses, based on political or economic conditions. We are donating these vaccines with the singular objective of saving lives," the official said. "Our vaccines do not come with strings attached," the official said, adding Taiwan had "faced unfair challenges in its efforts to acquire vaccines on the global marketplace." A deal for Taiwan to purchase vaccines from Germany's BioNTech SE fell through this year, with Taiwan's government blaming pressure from Beijing. China has denied the accusation, saying Taiwan is free to obtain the vaccines through Shanghai Fosun Pharmaceutical Group Co Ltd, which has a contract to sell BioNTech's vaccine in China, Hong Kong, Macau and Taiwan. "We believe that these attempts by China to block purchases, for political purposes, are reprehensible," the senior Biden administration official said. Also read | Taiwan wants German vaccines. China may be standing in its way. Taiwan is trying to speed up the arrival of the millions of vaccines it has on order, although infections remain comparatively low despite a rise in domestic cases. Only around 6 per cent of Taiwan's 23.5 million people have received at least one shot of a vaccine regimen. The US shipment comes when Washington has been working with Taipei to create secure supply chains for strategic items such as computer chips, of which Taiwan is a key producer vital for US automobile manufacturers and other industries. It also comes after Taiwan announced on Friday that it will allow Terry Gou, the billionaire founder of Taiwan's Foxconn and semiconductor giant TSMC, to negotiate on its behalf for COVID-19 vaccines. On Thursday, Jonathan Fritz, a senior State Department official, said that China had been "very aggressively using vaccine donations as a lever to induce more of Taiwan's diplomatic partners to switch recognition." Beijing has steadily whittled down the number of Taiwan's diplomatic allies, which now stands at just 15 countries. The United States, which like most countries has no formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, has watched with alarm the stepped-up tensions with Beijing and Biden's administration has vowed to boost ties with the island, which it is required under US law to supply with the means of defence. Also read | After massed plane incursion near Taiwan, China says must respond to 'collusion' This week, Taiwan reported the largest incursion yet by China's air force, including fighters and nuclear-capable bombers, into its air defence identification zone.

Exclusive: US triples vaccines for Taiwan with 2.5 million-dose shipment

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside.

The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister.

He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001.

President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts.

Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012.

The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament.

US President Joe Biden has set September 11 &nbsp;-- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers.

Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces.&nbsp;

The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts.

The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces.

On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back.

"There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban.

(With inputs from agencies)

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory.

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani on Saturday replaced two top ministers in charge of the country's faltering security situation. This measure came as the Taliban pressed on to capture new territory. The Taliban now claim to have seized more than 40 districts in recent weeks across countryside. The presidency announced in a statement that General Bismillah Khan Mohammadi, who fought under the late anti-Taliban commander Ahmad Shah Massoud during a 1990s civil war, has been appointed the new defence minister. He has previously held defence and interior ministry portfolios. Mohammadi has also served as chief of army staff after fall of Taliban following US-led invasion in 2001. President Ghani also appointed General Abdul Sattar Mirzakwal as interior minister, the presidency said. Mirzakwal has previously held several regional posts. Mohammadi replaces Asadullah Khalid who has repeatedly flown out of the country for treatment to wounds suffered after a suicide bomber attacked him in 2012. The latest cabinet changes need to be approved by the parliament. US President Joe Biden has set September 11 -- the 20th anniversary of the attacks in the United States that led to the invasion of Afghanistan -- as the deadline to withdraw American soldiers. Since the Pentagon commenced the final withdrawal on May 1, the Taliban have unleashed a wave of attacks targeting government forces. The insurgents claim to have seized more than 40 districts since early May, forcing military leaders to strategically retreat from a number of rural districts. The Taliban are now present in almost every province and are encircling several major cities - a strategy the militants employed in the mid-1990s when they overran most of Afghanistan until they were ousted by invading US-led forces. On Saturday, the defence ministry confirmed that government troops had retreated from several districts but said they aimed to take them back. "There is a new, robust and effective plan to retake areas from which we have pulled back our forces," ministry spokesman Rohullah Ahmadzai said, dismissing claims that hundreds of soldiers had surrendered to the Taliban. (With inputs from agencies)

Afghan president replaces defence minister as Taliban gains ground

Thousands of heavy metal fans are camping, singing, and even moshing, in the rain at Britain's first full music festival since the start of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">coronavirus pandemic</a>.

The three-day Download Festival, taking place at Donington Park in central England, is one of a series of test events to see whether mass gatherings can resume without triggering outbreaks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus-vaccine">COVID-19</a>.

About 10,000 fans, a tenth of the festival's pre-pandemic attendance, have tickets to watch more than 40 bands including Frank Carter &amp; The Rattlesnakes and Bullet for My Valentine.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uk-study-indicates-covid-resulting-in-long-term-loss-of-grey-matter-392567">UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter</a>

Attendees all took COVID-19 tests before the event, and don't have to wear masks or follow social distancing rules during the festival.

Promoter Andy Copping said there was a real sense of euphoria,&nbsp;at the event, which runs through Sunday, despite the wet weather. He said, "it wouldn't be Download unless there was a bit of rain."

Britain has recorded almost 128,000 coronavirus deaths, the highest toll in Europe. The government has delayed the planned lifting of remaining social and economic restrictions until July 19 amid a rise in cases driven by the highly contagious delta variant.&nbsp;

Thousands of heavy metal fans are camping, singing, and even moshing, in the rain at Britain's first full music festival since the start of the coronavirus pandemic.

Thousands of heavy metal fans are camping, singing, and even moshing, in the rain at Britain's first full music festival since the start of the coronavirus pandemic. The three-day Download Festival, taking place at Donington Park in central England, is one of a series of test events to see whether mass gatherings can resume without triggering outbreaks of COVID-19. About 10,000 fans, a tenth of the festival's pre-pandemic attendance, have tickets to watch more than 40 bands including Frank Carter & The Rattlesnakes and Bullet for My Valentine. Also read | UK study indicates Covid resulting in long-term loss of grey matter Attendees all took COVID-19 tests before the event, and don't have to wear masks or follow social distancing rules during the festival. Promoter Andy Copping said there was a real sense of euphoria, at the event, which runs through Sunday, despite the wet weather. He said, "it wouldn't be Download unless there was a bit of rain." Britain has recorded almost 128,000 coronavirus deaths, the highest toll in Europe. The government has delayed the planned lifting of remaining social and economic restrictions until July 19 amid a rise in cases driven by the highly contagious delta variant.

UK holds 1st festival since pandemic start

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