Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February.

The fighting is some of the heaviest since the coup and underlines the growing chaos as the junta struggles to impose order in the face of daily protests, strikes and sabotage attacks after it overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi.

"We are running for our lives," one resident told Reuters from Mindat, a hill town just over 100 km (60 miles) from the border with India.

"There are around 20,000 people trapped in town, most of them are kids, old people," the resident added. "My friend's three nieces were hit by shrapnel. They are not even teens.”

The junta imposed martial law in Mindat on Thursday and then stepped up attacks on what it called "armed terrorists". A junta spokesman did not answer calls requesting comment on the fighting on Saturday.

Army-controlled Myawaddy television said around 1,000 "unscrupulous people" had attacked with small arms and homemade grenades in recent days, and that some members of the security forces were killed and others missing. It said security forces would work day and night to bring order.

Fighters of the Chinland Defence Force retreated as military reinforcements advanced with artillery bombardments and helicopter attacks, a member of a local administration set up by the junta's opponents told Reuters by phone.

Five civilians had been killed in Mindat in the past two days, said Doctor Sasa, minister of international cooperation in a shadow National Unity Government set up to rival the junta.

US&nbsp;APPEAL

"The military’s use of weapons of war against civilians, including this week in Mindat, is a further demonstration of the depths the regime will sink to to hold on to power," the US&nbsp;Embassy in Myanmar said in a statement. "We call on the military to cease violence against civilians."

Myanmar already had some two dozen ethnic armed groups, who have waged war for decades against an army dominated by the Bamar majority.

The Chinland Defence Force was set up in response to the coup. Facing one of the region's best equipped armies, its fighters are armed largely with home-made hunting guns. Reuters was unable to reach the group for comment on Saturday.

At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group.

The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the Internet. Reuters cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers.

Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told a news conference that 63 people had been killed recently in what he described as various "terrorist attacks" by the administration's opponents, appealing to people to inform on the attackers.

Anti-junta protests were held in the main city of Myanmar and many other towns on Saturday.

A poet who had criticised military rule had been soaked in gasoline and burned to death in the central town of Monywa on Friday, residents said. Sein Win was the third poet to be killed in the town, a stronghold of opposition to the junta.

The army took power alleging fraud in an election won by Suu Kyi's party in November. Its claims of irregularities were rejected by the electoral commission.

Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February.

Myanmar's army battled local militia fighters in the northwestern town of Mindat on Saturday, residents said, to try to quell a rebellion that has sprung up to oppose the junta which seized power in the Southeast Asian country in February. The fighting is some of the heaviest since the coup and underlines the growing chaos as the junta struggles to impose order in the face of daily protests, strikes and sabotage attacks after it overthrew elected leader Aung San Suu Kyi. "We are running for our lives," one resident told Reuters from Mindat, a hill town just over 100 km (60 miles) from the border with India. "There are around 20,000 people trapped in town, most of them are kids, old people," the resident added. "My friend's three nieces were hit by shrapnel. They are not even teens.” The junta imposed martial law in Mindat on Thursday and then stepped up attacks on what it called "armed terrorists". A junta spokesman did not answer calls requesting comment on the fighting on Saturday. Army-controlled Myawaddy television said around 1,000 "unscrupulous people" had attacked with small arms and homemade grenades in recent days, and that some members of the security forces were killed and others missing. It said security forces would work day and night to bring order. Fighters of the Chinland Defence Force retreated as military reinforcements advanced with artillery bombardments and helicopter attacks, a member of a local administration set up by the junta's opponents told Reuters by phone. Five civilians had been killed in Mindat in the past two days, said Doctor Sasa, minister of international cooperation in a shadow National Unity Government set up to rival the junta. US APPEAL "The military’s use of weapons of war against civilians, including this week in Mindat, is a further demonstration of the depths the regime will sink to to hold on to power," the US Embassy in Myanmar said in a statement. "We call on the military to cease violence against civilians." Myanmar already had some two dozen ethnic armed groups, who have waged war for decades against an army dominated by the Bamar majority. The Chinland Defence Force was set up in response to the coup. Facing one of the region's best equipped armies, its fighters are armed largely with home-made hunting guns. Reuters was unable to reach the group for comment on Saturday. At least 788 people have been killed by the junta's security forces in crackdowns on protests against its rule, according to an advocacy group. The military, which disputes that number, imposes tight restrictions on media, information and the Internet. Reuters cannot independently verify arrests and casualty numbers. Junta spokesman Zaw Min Tun told a news conference that 63 people had been killed recently in what he described as various "terrorist attacks" by the administration's opponents, appealing to people to inform on the attackers. Anti-junta protests were held in the main city of Myanmar and many other towns on Saturday. A poet who had criticised military rule had been soaked in gasoline and burned to death in the central town of Monywa on Friday, residents said. Sein Win was the third poet to be killed in the town, a stronghold of opposition to the junta. The army took power alleging fraud in an election won by Suu Kyi's party in November. Its claims of irregularities were rejected by the electoral commission.

Myanmar army battles anti-coup rebels as armed resistance grows

Britain's Serious Fraud Office is conducting a probe against tycoon Sanjeev Gupta's commodities empire. The probe encompasses the group's links to collapsed lender Greensill Capital.

In a statement, the anti-graft agency said it was "investigating suspected fraud, fraudulent trading and money laundering in relation to the financing and conduct of the business of companies within the Gupta Family Group Alliance (GFG), including its financing arrangements with Greensill Capital UK Ltd."

GFG said it would co-operate fully and would not comment further on the investigation. The SFO said it had no further comment.

Greensill Capital lent money to firms by buying their invoices at a discount, but it collapsed in March after one of its main insurers declined to renew its cover.

Its sudden failure has created waves around the world, drawing in Swiss investment bank Credit Suisse, German depositors and former British Prime Minister British Cameron, who was grilled in parliament this week over his lobbying efforts on behalf of Greensill.

Authorities are starting to home in on both Gupta and Greensill with Britain's Financial Conduct Authority on Tuesday saying it was formally investigating Greensill's UK operations as part of global probes.

Germany's financial regulator shuttered Greensill's Bremen-based bank and filed a criminal complaint against it earlier this year saying the lender could not provide evidence of receivables on its balance sheet.

GFG was Greensill's largest client. It said in February it would "collapse into insolvency" if the supply chain finance firm stopped providing it with working capital, Greensill said in its insolvency filing in March.

Greensill cited a $5 billion exposure to GFG Alliance when it filed for bankruptcy protection in Australia and Britain in March, a source familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity.

(With inputs&nbsp;from&nbsp;agencies)

Britain's Serious Fraud Office is conducting a probe against tycoon Sanjeev Gupta's commodities empire. The probe encompasses the group's links to collapsed lender Greensill Capital.

Britain's Serious Fraud Office is conducting a probe against tycoon Sanjeev Gupta's commodities empire. The probe encompasses the group's links to collapsed lender Greensill Capital. In a statement, the anti-graft agency said it was "investigating suspected fraud, fraudulent trading and money laundering in relation to the financing and conduct of the business of companies within the Gupta Family Group Alliance (GFG), including its financing arrangements with Greensill Capital UK Ltd." GFG said it would co-operate fully and would not comment further on the investigation. The SFO said it had no further comment. Greensill Capital lent money to firms by buying their invoices at a discount, but it collapsed in March after one of its main insurers declined to renew its cover. Its sudden failure has created waves around the world, drawing in Swiss investment bank Credit Suisse, German depositors and former British Prime Minister British Cameron, who was grilled in parliament this week over his lobbying efforts on behalf of Greensill. Authorities are starting to home in on both Gupta and Greensill with Britain's Financial Conduct Authority on Tuesday saying it was formally investigating Greensill's UK operations as part of global probes. Germany's financial regulator shuttered Greensill's Bremen-based bank and filed a criminal complaint against it earlier this year saying the lender could not provide evidence of receivables on its balance sheet. GFG was Greensill's largest client. It said in February it would "collapse into insolvency" if the supply chain finance firm stopped providing it with working capital, Greensill said in its insolvency filing in March. Greensill cited a $5 billion exposure to GFG Alliance when it filed for bankruptcy protection in Australia and Britain in March, a source familiar with the matter said on condition of anonymity. (With inputs from agencies)

UK's Serious Fraud Office launches probe into Sanjeev Gupta’s Greensill Capital

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg

"We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said.

Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years.

The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-rises-as-violence-rocks-gaza-israel-and-west-bank-385182">Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank&nbsp;</a>

Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move.

"Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA &amp; UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking &amp; painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine."

(With inputs from agencies)

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif cancelled his meeting with his Austrian counterpart as a sign of displeasure over Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz flying Israeli flag in Vienna. Zarif was due to meet Austria's foreign minister Alexander Schallenberg but he called off the meeting, said a spokeswoman for Schallenberg "We regret this and take note of it, but for us it is as clear as day that when Hamas fires more than 2,000 rockets at civilian targets in Israel then we will not remain silent," the spokeswoman said. Hamas is the Islamist group that runs Gaza. Israel has pummelled Gaza with airstrikes and Palestinian militants have launched rocket barrages at Israel in the worst escalation of violence in years. The dispute between Iran and Austria has come during talks to revive 2015 Iran nuclear deal. Former US President Donald Trump had unilaterally taken US out of the deal struck between Iran and world powers. Also Read | Death toll rises as violence rocks Gaza, Israel and West Bank Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz, who is firmly pro-Israel, had called flying the Israeli flag over the federal chancellery on Friday a mark of solidarity amid the violent clashes. But Abbas Araqchi, who heads the Iranian delegation at the Vienna talks, criticised the move. "Vienna is the seat of (nuclear watchdog) IAEA & UN, and (Austria) so far been a great host for negotiations," Araqchi wrote on Twitter. "Shocking & painful to see flag of the occupying regime, that brutally killed tens of innocent civilians, inc many children in just few days, over govt offices in Vienna. We stand with Palestine." (With inputs from agencies)

Iran foreign minister cancels meet with Austrian counterpart over Israel flag

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump had issued the order in 2020 to direct US regulators to limit liability protections enjoyed by the social media platforms.

The Center for Democracy and Technology, which had sued to block Trump's May 2020 order, praised Biden's reversal, arguing Trump's order "was an attempt to use threats of retaliation to coerce social media companies into allowing disinformation and hateful speech to go unchecked."

Trump unsuccessfully demanded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set new rules to limit protections for social media firms under the 1996 Communications Decency Act. It shields the companies from liability for content posted by their users and allows them to remove lawful but objectionable posts.

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/not-orange-donald-trump-appears-on-walls-of-national-portrait-gallery-385208">'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery</a>

Trump's executive order was issued after Twitter tagged his tweets having claims of widespread voter fraud in US Presidential Election 2020. Trump had continued his claims of voter fraud even after US Supreme Court had rejected the assertions.

After Trump's posts following the Jan. 6 Capitol attacks, Twitter and Facebook barred Trump from posting on their sites, and the following day FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said he would not act on Trump's request to limit social media liability protections.

Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Twitter declined comment but referred to its initial statement about Trump's order, which called it "reactionary and politicized."

(With inputs from agencies)

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

US President Joe Biden on Friday (local time) revoked an executive order by former President Donald Trump against social media platforms. The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Trump had issued the order in 2020 to direct US regulators to limit liability protections enjoyed by the social media platforms. The Center for Democracy and Technology, which had sued to block Trump's May 2020 order, praised Biden's reversal, arguing Trump's order "was an attempt to use threats of retaliation to coerce social media companies into allowing disinformation and hateful speech to go unchecked." Trump unsuccessfully demanded the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) set new rules to limit protections for social media firms under the 1996 Communications Decency Act. It shields the companies from liability for content posted by their users and allows them to remove lawful but objectionable posts. Also Read | 'Not orange': Donald Trump appears on walls of National Portrait Gallery Trump's executive order was issued after Twitter tagged his tweets having claims of widespread voter fraud in US Presidential Election 2020. Trump had continued his claims of voter fraud even after US Supreme Court had rejected the assertions. After Trump's posts following the Jan. 6 Capitol attacks, Twitter and Facebook barred Trump from posting on their sites, and the following day FCC Chairman Ajit Pai said he would not act on Trump's request to limit social media liability protections. Facebook did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Twitter declined comment but referred to its initial statement about Trump's order, which called it "reactionary and politicized." (With inputs from agencies)

Joe Biden revokes Trump executive order against social media platforms

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state.

"We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said.

Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period.

"Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added.

E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed.

(With inputs from agencies)

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said.

Indian state of West Bengal on Saturday announced a complete lockdown from May 16 till May 30 in order to contain spread of coronavirus in the state. "We are taking some strict measures to contain the pandemic, starting Sunday 6 am till 6 pm of May 30," Chief Secretary Alapan Bandyopadhyay said. During this period, all government and private offices, shopping complexes, malls, bars, sports complexes, pubs and beauty parlours will remain closed, he said. Movement of private vehicles, taxis, buses, metro rail, suburban trains will also be disallowed during the 15- day lockdown period. "Petrol pumps will remain open and essential services like milk, water, medicine, electricity, fire, law and order and media will not come under the purview of it," he added. E-commerce and home delivery services will be allowed. (With inputs from agencies)

West Bengal announces complete lockdown to stop Covid spread

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine. They said that action will be taken against social media users who try ' ‘to leverage the unfortunate situation in Palestine to disturb public peace and order in the Kashmir valley.’

“We are a professional force and are sensitive to public anguish. But J&amp;K police has a legal responsibility to ensure law and order as well. It, however, wouldn’t allow cynical encashment of the public anger to trigger violence, lawlessness and disorder on Kashmir streets," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir

The police say people have the right to express their opinions but they cannot hold any protests during the Covid pandemic. IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar stressed that engineering and inciting violence on streets is unlawful.

All irresponsible social media comments that result in actual violence and breaking of the law including Covid protocol will attract legal action.

Police have urged people to cooperate and desist from inciting tension in the valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine.

Jammu and Kashmir Police said on Saturday that it will take action against those who disturb peace in the valley by posting sensitive social media posts about Palestine. They said that action will be taken against social media users who try ' ‘to leverage the unfortunate situation in Palestine to disturb public peace and order in the Kashmir valley.’ “We are a professional force and are sensitive to public anguish. But J&K police has a legal responsibility to ensure law and order as well. It, however, wouldn’t allow cynical encashment of the public anger to trigger violence, lawlessness and disorder on Kashmir streets," said Vijay Kumar, Inspector General of Kashmir The police say people have the right to express their opinions but they cannot hold any protests during the Covid pandemic. IG Kashmir Vijay Kumar stressed that engineering and inciting violence on streets is unlawful. All irresponsible social media comments that result in actual violence and breaking of the law including Covid protocol will attract legal action. Police have urged people to cooperate and desist from inciting tension in the valley.

Jammu and Kashmir Police to take action against sensitive social media content on Palestine

China does not like to be spoken about unless the words are praises. Criticisms attract the dragon's wrath and a mention of Xinjiang, fire. If anyone asks for access to Xinjiang, Chinese Imams lie through their teeth.

"Today's Xinjiang enjoys economic development and social stability, and people live in harmony. And we Muslims live a very happy life too. We are grateful to the party and government from the bottom of our heart," says Mamat Juma, Imam of Id Kah mosque.

Let's rewind a little.

On the 12th of May, there was a virtual meeting on the situation in Xinjiang. It was organised by Germany, the US, and the UK. It was co-sponsored by Canada, Australia, New Zealand among others.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-china-cornered-on-xinjiang-384851/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

China had tried to stall this meeting. Beijing lobbied against it, asked UN members to stay away. It text-messaged UN ambassadors from 15 western nations, asking them to 'think twice'.

But nothing worked and the virtual event was held. It was attended by 51 countries.

"In Xinjiang, people are being tortured. Women are being forcibly sterilized. Many Uyghur people and other ethnic and religious minorities – who only wish to practice basic freedom of religion, belief, expression, and movement – are being forced to work until they drop," said Linda Thomas-Greenfield during the event. She is USA's ambassador to the UN.

"This is a wider situation, probably one of the worst human rights crises of our time," said Barbara Woodward, UK ambassador to the UN.

"Now the Chinese government claims that this is about fighting terrorism, but frankly Beijing doesn't even pretend that this is a targeted effort. This sweeping broad-based persecution is a blatant attack on Islam and on Uyghur culture. Terrorism is a feeble pretext," said Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch.

Speaker after speaker rebuked China. Some even took on the UN Human Rights Commission for not doing enough. UN Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet was called out for not joining the event.

"Do not let China's portrayal of critics define your motivation," said Agnes Callamard, secretary-general of Amnesty international.

One country that saw nothing wrong with what was happening in Xinjiang was China.

"Xinjiang is a beautiful, peaceful and prosperous place. Your attempt of using Xinjiang to contain China is doomed to fail," said Guo Jiakun, counsellor, Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations.

'Xinjiang is peaceful' was his version of the truth. By the end of the event, China was battered with criticism.&nbsp;

The consensus was loud and clear. An immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang.

Cut to the day after.

An event marking the end of Ramzan was organised in Beijing. It was well-orchestrated. Invites were sent out to foreign diplomats. The doors were opened to the press and cameras. And then Beijing paraded some very well-trained Muslim clerics. Each parroting the lines of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP).

"The anti-China forces in the US and western countries have shown unusual interest to Muslims in Xinjiang," said Abdureqip Tomurniyaz, president of the Islam Association of Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region.

"Cracking down on religious extremism is to better protect legal religion," said Mamat Juma, Imam of Id Kah mosque.

Over a million Uyghur Muslims have been put in China's concentration camps. Reports say that many have died. Many have been raped, forcefully sterilised. China's minorities are disappearing.

And it may take more than a set of well-trained CCP Imams for China to scrub this genocide from the conscience of the world.

From where we stand, China has been cornered on Xinjiang. And sooner rather than later, it will be made to pay.

China does not like to be spoken about unless the words are praises. Criticisms attract the dragon's wrath and a mention of Xinjiang, fire. If anyone asks for access to Xinjiang, Chinese Imams lie through their teeth.

China does not like to be spoken about unless the words are praises. Criticisms attract the dragon's wrath and a mention of Xinjiang, fire. If anyone asks for access to Xinjiang, Chinese Imams lie through their teeth. "Today's Xinjiang enjoys economic development and social stability, and people live in harmony. And we Muslims live a very happy life too. We are grateful to the party and government from the bottom of our heart," says Mamat Juma, Imam of Id Kah mosque. Let's rewind a little. On the 12th of May, there was a virtual meeting on the situation in Xinjiang. It was organised by Germany, the US, and the UK. It was co-sponsored by Canada, Australia, New Zealand among others. × China had tried to stall this meeting. Beijing lobbied against it, asked UN members to stay away. It text-messaged UN ambassadors from 15 western nations, asking them to 'think twice'. But nothing worked and the virtual event was held. It was attended by 51 countries. "In Xinjiang, people are being tortured. Women are being forcibly sterilized. Many Uyghur people and other ethnic and religious minorities – who only wish to practice basic freedom of religion, belief, expression, and movement – are being forced to work until they drop," said Linda Thomas-Greenfield during the event. She is USA's ambassador to the UN. "This is a wider situation, probably one of the worst human rights crises of our time," said Barbara Woodward, UK ambassador to the UN. "Now the Chinese government claims that this is about fighting terrorism, but frankly Beijing doesn't even pretend that this is a targeted effort. This sweeping broad-based persecution is a blatant attack on Islam and on Uyghur culture. Terrorism is a feeble pretext," said Kenneth Roth, executive director of Human Rights Watch. Speaker after speaker rebuked China. Some even took on the UN Human Rights Commission for not doing enough. UN Human Rights Commissioner Michelle Bachelet was called out for not joining the event. "Do not let China's portrayal of critics define your motivation," said Agnes Callamard, secretary-general of Amnesty international. One country that saw nothing wrong with what was happening in Xinjiang was China. "Xinjiang is a beautiful, peaceful and prosperous place. Your attempt of using Xinjiang to contain China is doomed to fail," said Guo Jiakun, counsellor, Permanent Mission of the People's Republic of China to the United Nations. 'Xinjiang is peaceful' was his version of the truth. By the end of the event, China was battered with criticism. The consensus was loud and clear. An immediate, meaningful and unfettered access to Xinjiang. Cut to the day after. An event marking the end of Ramzan was organised in Beijing. It was well-orchestrated. Invites were sent out to foreign diplomats. The doors were opened to the press and cameras. And then Beijing paraded some very well-trained Muslim clerics. Each parroting the lines of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). "The anti-China forces in the US and western countries have shown unusual interest to Muslims in Xinjiang," said Abdureqip Tomurniyaz, president of the Islam Association of Xinjiang Uyghur autonomous region. "Cracking down on religious extremism is to better protect legal religion," said Mamat Juma, Imam of Id Kah mosque. Over a million Uyghur Muslims have been put in China's concentration camps. Reports say that many have died. Many have been raped, forcefully sterilised. China's minorities are disappearing. And it may take more than a set of well-trained CCP Imams for China to scrub this genocide from the conscience of the world. From where we stand, China has been cornered on Xinjiang. And sooner rather than later, it will be made to pay.

China gets cornered on Xinjiang, deploys imams for defence

US lawmaker Rashida Tlaib on Thursday (local time) questioned US government's "unconditional support" to Israel amid clashes with Palestine. Tlaib has been critical of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians.

"We must, with no hesitation, demand that our country recognize the unconditional support of Israel has enabled the erasure of Palestinian life and the denial of the rights of millions of refugees," Tlaib said, often tearing up as she addressed the House of Representatives.

She was joined on the floor by congresswoman from Minnesota, Ilhan Omar, who criticized her colleagues in the House for their stand on Israel.

"Instead of condemning blatant crimes against humanity and human rights abuses, many members of Congress have instead fallen back on a blanket statement defending Israel's airstrikes against civilians under the guise of self-defense."

At least 109 people have been killed in Gaza over previous four days as per Palestinian medical officials.

On Thursday alone, 52 Palestinians were killed in the enclave, the highest single-day figure since Monday (May 10).

Seven people were killed in Israel: a soldier patrolling the Gaza border, five Israeli civilians, including two children, and an Indian worker, Israeli authorities said.

(With inputs from agencies)

US lawmaker Rashida Tlaib on Thursday (local time) questioned US government's "unconditional support" to Israel amid clashes with Palestine. Tlaib has been critical of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians.

US lawmaker Rashida Tlaib on Thursday (local time) questioned US government's "unconditional support" to Israel amid clashes with Palestine. Tlaib has been critical of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians. "We must, with no hesitation, demand that our country recognize the unconditional support of Israel has enabled the erasure of Palestinian life and the denial of the rights of millions of refugees," Tlaib said, often tearing up as she addressed the House of Representatives. She was joined on the floor by congresswoman from Minnesota, Ilhan Omar, who criticized her colleagues in the House for their stand on Israel. "Instead of condemning blatant crimes against humanity and human rights abuses, many members of Congress have instead fallen back on a blanket statement defending Israel's airstrikes against civilians under the guise of self-defense." At least 109 people have been killed in Gaza over previous four days as per Palestinian medical officials. On Thursday alone, 52 Palestinians were killed in the enclave, the highest single-day figure since Monday (May 10). Seven people were killed in Israel: a soldier patrolling the Gaza border, five Israeli civilians, including two children, and an Indian worker, Israeli authorities said. (With inputs from agencies)

US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib responds tearfully over Israel-Palestine conflict

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

"I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter.

Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims

ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority.

That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards.

After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups.

Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute."

"My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction."

(With inputs from agencies)

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes.

In light of escalation of violence between Israel and Palestine, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court (ICC) on Wednesday voiced concern about possible war crimes. "I note with great concern the escalation of violence in the West Bank, including East Jerusalem, as well as in and around Gaza, and the possible commission of crimes under the Rome Statute," which founded the ICC, Fatou Bensouda said on Twitter. Israeli army and Palestinian militants have been exchanging deadly fire since last week's violence around Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem that is regarded as a holy place by Jews as well as Muslims ICC Chief Prosecutor Bensouda announced on March 3 that she had opened a full investigation into the situation in the Israeli-occupied territories, infuriating Israel, which not a member of The Hague-based court, unlike the Palestinian Authority. That probe will mainly focus on the 2014 Gaza War but also look at the deaths of Palestinian demonstrators from 2018 onwards. After a five-year preliminary probe, she had said there was "reasonable basis" to believe crimes were committed by both sides -- by the Israeli Defense Forces and Israeli authorities, and by Hamas and Palestinian armed groups. Bensouda said Wednesday that the ICC investigations "will cover all sides and all the facts and evidence relevant to an assessment of whether there is individual criminal responsibility under the Statute." "My Office will continue to monitor developments on the ground and will factor any matter that falls within its jurisdiction." (With inputs from agencies)

Israel-Palestine violence: International Criminal Court warns against war crimes

Ireland's High Court on Friday rejected Facebook's bid to block a regulatory probe that could potentially stop data transfers from the European Union to the United States.

"I refuse all of the reliefs sought by (Facebook Ireland) and dismiss the claims made by it in the proceedings," read a statement from High Court judge David Barniville, dismissing its challenge against the Data Protection Commissioner's decision to hold a probe.

"FBI has not established any basis for impugning the DPC decision or the PDD or the procedures for the inquiry adopted by the DPC," the judgment said.

The case originates from EU concern that US government's surveillance may not respect privacy rights of EU citizens.

Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) had launched an inquiry in August. It had issued a provisional order saying that the main mechanism Facebook uses to transfer EU user data to the United States "cannot in practice be used". Facebook had challenged the inquiry and the Preliminary Draft Decision (PDD).

Facebook had said that the inquiry threatened "devastating" and "irreversible" consequences for its business, which relies on processing user data to serve targeted online ads. The HIgh Court rejected the challenge.

While the decision does not trigger an immediate halt to data flows, Austrian privacy activist Max Schrems, who forced the Irish data regulator to act in a series of legal actions over the past eight years, said he believed the decision made it inevitable.

"After eight years, the DPC is now required to stop Facebook's EU-U.S. data transfers, likely before summer," he said.

A Facebook spokesman said the company looked forward to defending its compliance with EU data rules as the Irish regulator's provisional order "could be damaging not only to Facebook, but also to users and other businesses".

(With inputs from agencies)

Ireland's High Court on Friday rejected Facebook's bid to block a regulatory probe that could potentially stop data transfers from the European Union to the United States.

Ireland's High Court on Friday rejected Facebook's bid to block a regulatory probe that could potentially stop data transfers from the European Union to the United States. "I refuse all of the reliefs sought by (Facebook Ireland) and dismiss the claims made by it in the proceedings," read a statement from High Court judge David Barniville, dismissing its challenge against the Data Protection Commissioner's decision to hold a probe. "FBI has not established any basis for impugning the DPC decision or the PDD or the procedures for the inquiry adopted by the DPC," the judgment said. The case originates from EU concern that US government's surveillance may not respect privacy rights of EU citizens. Ireland's Data Protection Commissioner (DPC) had launched an inquiry in August. It had issued a provisional order saying that the main mechanism Facebook uses to transfer EU user data to the United States "cannot in practice be used". Facebook had challenged the inquiry and the Preliminary Draft Decision (PDD). Facebook had said that the inquiry threatened "devastating" and "irreversible" consequences for its business, which relies on processing user data to serve targeted online ads. The HIgh Court rejected the challenge. While the decision does not trigger an immediate halt to data flows, Austrian privacy activist Max Schrems, who forced the Irish data regulator to act in a series of legal actions over the past eight years, said he believed the decision made it inevitable. "After eight years, the DPC is now required to stop Facebook's EU-U.S. data transfers, likely before summer," he said. A Facebook spokesman said the company looked forward to defending its compliance with EU data rules as the Irish regulator's provisional order "could be damaging not only to Facebook, but also to users and other businesses". (With inputs from agencies)

Facebook may face prospect of data transfer ban after Irish ruling

The era of Archies gift shops was something. It was a one-stop shop for all gifts, greetings cards and what not. But just after the turn of the millenium and ahead, the popularity of such shops nosedived.

From engraving someone's name on a keychain being a huge thing, we have come to an era in which even a villager can get a photo printed on a mug and get it delivered to his home. And the ideas of gifts are changing as well.

Enter stock cards! These are gift cards for blue-chip stocks. Couples in South Korea are gifting them to each other. One investment bank has sold 20,000 'stock gift cards' in just five months. Another stock provider sold 3.4 million such cards in a matter of 20 days.

3.4 million!

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-south-korean-couples-are-gifting-stocks-to-each-other-384854/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

&nbsp;

Who are buying these stocks? Mostly couples in their 20s and 30s. Which stock is their favourite? Tesla! Apple is close behind followed by Starbucks and Netflix.

A 23-year-old college student from South Korea gifted four stock cards to his girlfriend on her birthday. How did she react? The girlfriend first thought it was a scam.

Here's what her partner told a media house:&nbsp;"I didn't get beaten up by her, but she did say that I should increase the amount of cash I put into the gift card next time."

How much are these stocks priced at? A stock in Starbucks comes for as much as a latte. Couples who want to spend more can go for Apple stock gift card. They cost around 22 dollars. Then there are Testla stock cards for couples who can afford something a litte more expensive, with each stock selling at 26 dollars.

Believe it or not, the trend of gifting stocks may have something to do with Kim Kardashian. In 2017, she recieved Amazon, Apple, Disney and Netflix stock as Christmas gift. It was from her then-husband Kayne West.

The pair is now separated but their gestures have revolutionised gifting.

Leave alone stock gift cards, Who would have thought of stocks as gifts?

Most of us get confused when it comes to picking the perfect chocolate, or the right flowers. We were not always this spoilt for choice.

The history of gifting goes back to start of the civilisation. There were no cards, no ribbons, no wrapping papers then. Researchers say that back when we lived in caves, gifts were mostly unusual shaped rocks or animal teeth. They were exchanged to express one's love for another.

Time changed, and so did gifts.

Sometime between 605 BC and 562 BC,&nbsp;King Nebuchadnezzar II built the Hanging Garden of Babylon as a gift for his wife Queen Amytis.

In the 16th century, Queen of England Anne Boleyn had a fountain made as a gift for her husband King Henry VIII. They say the fountain was decorated with gold, rubies, pearls and silver.

In 2013, boxer Mike Tyson bought a 24-carat solid gold bathtub for his then-wife Robin Givens. It was a birthday gift worth $2 million.

In 2012, actor Angelina Jolie gifted her then-partner Brad Pitt a waterfall!

Planes and yachts are a common gift among the richie rich.&nbsp;

But what inspires these exorbitant gifting ideas? Researchers say, we humans use gifts to attract or retain mates. Even our nearest relatives the Chimpanzees often give gifts of food to females.

The global gifting market is worth $698 billion, according to a media startup, Bazinga.&nbsp;

It says India is expected to be one of the world's largest gifting markets by 2024. One estimate says India's gifting market is expected to cross $159 million by 2025. India is also home to the world's most famous emblem of love, the Taj Mahal. A gift in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, by her husband, the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The Taj was completed in 1648.&nbsp;

It's been 373 years, and so much has changed. Even in middle of a pandemic, we can send customised cakes and gifts to our partners living thousands of miles away with just a click. What more? They are delivered within hours.

As a gesture of love, you can also name a star after your partner. People gift holidays, hand-made cookies, land, and luxuries.

The list is long.

And just in case you are still struggling to pick the right gift for your partner, you might want to keep stocks as an option!

The era of Archies gift shops was something. It was a one-stop shop for all gifts, greetings cards and what not. But just after the turn of the millenium and ahead, the popularity of such shops nosedived.

The era of Archies gift shops was something. It was a one-stop shop for all gifts, greetings cards and what not. But just after the turn of the millenium and ahead, the popularity of such shops nosedived. From engraving someone's name on a keychain being a huge thing, we have come to an era in which even a villager can get a photo printed on a mug and get it delivered to his home. And the ideas of gifts are changing as well. Enter stock cards! These are gift cards for blue-chip stocks. Couples in South Korea are gifting them to each other. One investment bank has sold 20,000 'stock gift cards' in just five months. Another stock provider sold 3.4 million such cards in a matter of 20 days. 3.4 million! × Who are buying these stocks? Mostly couples in their 20s and 30s. Which stock is their favourite? Tesla! Apple is close behind followed by Starbucks and Netflix. A 23-year-old college student from South Korea gifted four stock cards to his girlfriend on her birthday. How did she react? The girlfriend first thought it was a scam. Here's what her partner told a media house: "I didn't get beaten up by her, but she did say that I should increase the amount of cash I put into the gift card next time." How much are these stocks priced at? A stock in Starbucks comes for as much as a latte. Couples who want to spend more can go for Apple stock gift card. They cost around 22 dollars. Then there are Testla stock cards for couples who can afford something a litte more expensive, with each stock selling at 26 dollars. Believe it or not, the trend of gifting stocks may have something to do with Kim Kardashian. In 2017, she recieved Amazon, Apple, Disney and Netflix stock as Christmas gift. It was from her then-husband Kayne West. The pair is now separated but their gestures have revolutionised gifting. Leave alone stock gift cards, Who would have thought of stocks as gifts? Most of us get confused when it comes to picking the perfect chocolate, or the right flowers. We were not always this spoilt for choice. The history of gifting goes back to start of the civilisation. There were no cards, no ribbons, no wrapping papers then. Researchers say that back when we lived in caves, gifts were mostly unusual shaped rocks or animal teeth. They were exchanged to express one's love for another. Time changed, and so did gifts. Sometime between 605 BC and 562 BC, King Nebuchadnezzar II built the Hanging Garden of Babylon as a gift for his wife Queen Amytis. In the 16th century, Queen of England Anne Boleyn had a fountain made as a gift for her husband King Henry VIII. They say the fountain was decorated with gold, rubies, pearls and silver. In 2013, boxer Mike Tyson bought a 24-carat solid gold bathtub for his then-wife Robin Givens. It was a birthday gift worth $2 million. In 2012, actor Angelina Jolie gifted her then-partner Brad Pitt a waterfall! Planes and yachts are a common gift among the richie rich. But what inspires these exorbitant gifting ideas? Researchers say, we humans use gifts to attract or retain mates. Even our nearest relatives the Chimpanzees often give gifts of food to females. The global gifting market is worth $698 billion, according to a media startup, Bazinga. It says India is expected to be one of the world's largest gifting markets by 2024. One estimate says India's gifting market is expected to cross $159 million by 2025. India is also home to the world's most famous emblem of love, the Taj Mahal. A gift in memory of Mumtaz Mahal, by her husband, the Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan. The Taj was completed in 1648. It's been 373 years, and so much has changed. Even in middle of a pandemic, we can send customised cakes and gifts to our partners living thousands of miles away with just a click. What more? They are delivered within hours. As a gesture of love, you can also name a star after your partner. People gift holidays, hand-made cookies, land, and luxuries. The list is long. And just in case you are still struggling to pick the right gift for your partner, you might want to keep stocks as an option!

Greeting cards are so yesterday, 'stock cards' is the new buzz!

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West.&nbsp;

The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic.&nbsp; 
The Czech embassy will be allowed to employ no more than 19 Russian nationals and the US embassy none at all, Moscow said.

Tensions between Russia and the US have been high from the time the US held it accountable for interference in US elections and hacking of US government departments and agencies. The US expelled some Russian diplomats last month.

Czech Republic has also taken a hard stand against Russia in recent weeks. Last month, it expelled Russian diplomats and accused Russia of having been involved in an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump.

Russia's ties with the West were also strained during its military build-up along its border with Ukraine.

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday to respond to what he said was the persecution of Moscow-friendly politicians in Ukraine, accusing the West of turning a blind eye to Kiev's political "clean-up".

With tensions between Moscow and Kiev high, Ukraine this week placed Putin's top ally Viktor Medvedchuk under house arrest on suspicion of high treason.

(With inputs from agencies)

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West. The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic.

Russia on Friday officially designated the US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly' states. This move has come amid rising tensions between Russia and the West. The Russian government released a list of "unfriendly states" that now includes the US and the Czech Republic. The Czech embassy will be allowed to employ no more than 19 Russian nationals and the US embassy none at all, Moscow said. Tensions between Russia and the US have been high from the time the US held it accountable for interference in US elections and hacking of US government departments and agencies. The US expelled some Russian diplomats last month. Czech Republic has also taken a hard stand against Russia in recent weeks. Last month, it expelled Russian diplomats and accused Russia of having been involved in an explosion at a Czech ammunition dump. Russia's ties with the West were also strained during its military build-up along its border with Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday to respond to what he said was the persecution of Moscow-friendly politicians in Ukraine, accusing the West of turning a blind eye to Kiev's political "clean-up". With tensions between Moscow and Kiev high, Ukraine this week placed Putin's top ally Viktor Medvedchuk under house arrest on suspicion of high treason. (With inputs from agencies)

Russia designates US and Czech Republic as 'unfriendly states'

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Manas Joshi

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.