<p>United States federal investigators have said that a pilot error led to a United Airlines flight plunging towards the ocean,&nbsp;coming within 748 feet of crashing into the Pacific Ocean in 2022.<br />
<br />
In a recently published final report, the National Transportation Safety Board has stated that the cause of the deep dive, which was taken by United Airlines flight 1722, was “the flight crew’s failure to manage the aeroplane’s vertical flightpath” after an apparent “miscommunication” between both the pilots over the position of the wing flaps of the plane.<br />
<br />
The incident happened a minute after the Boeing 777 took off from Hawaii’s Kahului Airport on December 18, 2022, amid heavy rain and turbulence, said the NTSB.<br />
<br />
The flight, which had 271 passengers on board, continued towards its destination San Francisco without facing any further issues, said the investigators.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-police-register-case-in-connection-to-call-that-threatened-hijack-of-flight-to-tel-aviv-616255">Delhi police register case over call warning of possible hijack of flight to Tel Aviv</a></p>

<p>The NTSB stated that the flight crew's statements have revealed confusion regarding the setting of the 777’s flaps, which are generally extended during takeoff and the pilot incrementally retracts it during climb out.<br />
<br />
“When the airplane reached the acceleration altitude, the captain reduced the pitch attitude slightly and called for the flap setting to be reduced to flaps 5,” said the NTSB in its report. “According to the first officer, he thought that he heard the captain announce flaps 15,” it added.<br />
<br />
The report stated that the captain, who was flying the flight at an altitude of 2,100 feet (640 meters), was worried about damaging the still-extended flaps and hence, he started decelerating and descending until cockpit alarms sounded.</p>

<h2><strong>The officer shouts ‘pull up pull up’</strong></h2>

<p>“Both pilots recalled hearing the initial warnings from the ground proximity warning system (GPWS), and the first officer recalled announcing ‘pull up pull up’ along with those initial GPWS warnings,” said the NTSB report.<br />
<br />
The report stated that United Airlines has brought changes to its training procedures and “issued an awareness campaign about flight path management at their training centre.”<br />
<br />
After the incident was first reported earlier this year, United stated that an investigation was being conducted with the FAA and the pilots union “that ultimately resulted in the pilots receiving additional training.”</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Virgin Galactic makes history with first space tourist flight</strong></p>

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<p>United is “drawing on the lessons learned from this flight to inform the training of all United pilots,” said the airline in a statement on Thursday (August 10)<br />
<br />
“Our pilots voluntarily reported this event and United fully co-operated with the independent investigation so that insights could be used to enhance the safety of the entire industry,” it added.<br />
<br />
United said that additional training was provided to the two pilots after which they continued to fly for the airline.</p>

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United States federal investigators have said that a pilot error led to a United Airlines flight plunging towards the ocean, coming within 748 feet of crashing into the Pacific Ocean in 2022.

United States federal investigators have said that a pilot error led to a United Airlines flight plunging towards the ocean, coming within 748 feet of crashing into the Pacific Ocean in 2022. In a recently published final report, the National Transportation Safety Board has stated that the cause of the deep dive, which was taken by United Airlines flight 1722, was “the flight crew’s failure to manage the aeroplane’s vertical flightpath” after an apparent “miscommunication” between both the pilots over the position of the wing flaps of the plane. The incident happened a minute after the Boeing 777 took off from Hawaii’s Kahului Airport on December 18, 2022, amid heavy rain and turbulence, said the NTSB. The flight, which had 271 passengers on board, continued towards its destination San Francisco without facing any further issues, said the investigators. ALSO READ | Delhi police register case over call warning of possible hijack of flight to Tel Aviv The NTSB stated that the flight crew's statements have revealed confusion regarding the setting of the 777’s flaps, which are generally extended during takeoff and the pilot incrementally retracts it during climb out. “When the airplane reached the acceleration altitude, the captain reduced the pitch attitude slightly and called for the flap setting to be reduced to flaps 5,” said the NTSB in its report. “According to the first officer, he thought that he heard the captain announce flaps 15,” it added. The report stated that the captain, who was flying the flight at an altitude of 2,100 feet (640 meters), was worried about damaging the still-extended flaps and hence, he started decelerating and descending until cockpit alarms sounded. The officer shouts ‘pull up pull up’ “Both pilots recalled hearing the initial warnings from the ground proximity warning system (GPWS), and the first officer recalled announcing ‘pull up pull up’ along with those initial GPWS warnings,” said the NTSB report. The report stated that United Airlines has brought changes to its training procedures and “issued an awareness campaign about flight path management at their training centre.” After the incident was first reported earlier this year, United stated that an investigation was being conducted with the FAA and the pilots union “that ultimately resulted in the pilots receiving additional training.” WATCH | Virgin Galactic makes history with first space tourist flight United is “drawing on the lessons learned from this flight to inform the training of all United pilots,” said the airline in a statement on Thursday (August 10) “Our pilots voluntarily reported this event and United fully co-operated with the independent investigation so that insights could be used to enhance the safety of the entire industry,” it added. United said that additional training was provided to the two pilots after which they continued to fly for the airline. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Human error | Plunge of United flight towards ocean was mistake of pilot, says NTSB

<p>Sites which narrated tales of Hawaii's royal past, the largest banyan tree and the 200-year-old church are some of the landmarks which have been reduced to ashes by the disastrous wildfires in Maui.<br />
<br />
The tree was a symbol of the culture of the island and the buildings emphasised the importance of Hawaiian history. The whole town recently celebrated the 150th birthday of the banyan tree with cake. The tree continues to stand but is charred by the fire which burned the whole area.<br />
<br />
“It certainly doesn’t look like that tree is going to recover,” said James B Friday, an extension forester with the University of Hawaii, while speaking to the New York Times after reviewing videos and photos of the damage. The thin bark of the tree would have failed to provide adequate protection from the flames, he stated.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ | </strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-whats-happening-in-maui-how-has-the-situation-gotten-so-worse-624358">Explained | What's behind Maui wildfires? How has the situation gotten so worse?</a></p>

<p>For 150 years, community events, including art fairs, have been shaded by the colossal tree. “It’s kind of the centre of town,” said Amy Fuqua, a Maui resident, while speaking to the Associated Press in a 2016 interview.</p>

<p>“Everyone knows where it’s at. It has an important significance to the town and it feels good under there,” she had added.</p>

<h2><strong>Town, history, and heritage engulfed in fire</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from the banyan tree, an 1830s-era Baldwin Home Museum was reduced to ash, confirmed Lahaina Restoration Foundation Executive Director Theo Morrison to CNN. The Waiola Church, where English and Hawaiian prayers echoed for decades, was also engulfed by wildfire flames.<br />
<br />
The area also houses the Wo Hing Temple Museum, a social and religious meeting place for the Chinese immigrant community of the island. That has also suffered destruction, as seen by satellite imagery.<br />
<br />
In 1909, Chinese immigrants who had come to Maui as contract sugar plantation labourers and settled there permanently created the Wo Hing Society, as per the National Park Service. The Lahaina Heritage Museum, which is located on the west of the banyan tree, is also situated amid a field of fire debris which has been captured by satellite images.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Hawai wildfires: More than 14,000 people relocated from Maui, death toll rises to 53</strong></p>

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<p>The structure earlier provided an interactive look at Lahaina's history, from the epoch before European contact to the Monarchy era, which included the whaling and missionary period, and from the Plantation era to early tourism, said the website.<br />
<br />
“I can say everything in Lahaina is gone,” said Maui resident Dustin Kaleiopu, while speaking to CNN. “Everyone that I know and love, everyone that I’m related to, that I communicate with, my colleagues, friends, family – we’re all homeless,” he added.<br />
<br />
The governor on Thursday said that the town, “with a few rare exceptions, has been burned down”.</p>

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Sites which narrated tales of Hawaii's royal past, the largest banyan tree and the 200-year-old church are some of the landmarks which have been reduced to ashes by the disastrous wildfires in Maui.

Sites which narrated tales of Hawaii's royal past, the largest banyan tree and the 200-year-old church are some of the landmarks which have been reduced to ashes by the disastrous wildfires in Maui. The tree was a symbol of the culture of the island and the buildings emphasised the importance of Hawaiian history. The whole town recently celebrated the 150th birthday of the banyan tree with cake. The tree continues to stand but is charred by the fire which burned the whole area. “It certainly doesn’t look like that tree is going to recover,” said James B Friday, an extension forester with the University of Hawaii, while speaking to the New York Times after reviewing videos and photos of the damage. The thin bark of the tree would have failed to provide adequate protection from the flames, he stated. ALSO READ | Explained | What's behind Maui wildfires? How has the situation gotten so worse? For 150 years, community events, including art fairs, have been shaded by the colossal tree. “It’s kind of the centre of town,” said Amy Fuqua, a Maui resident, while speaking to the Associated Press in a 2016 interview. “Everyone knows where it’s at. It has an important significance to the town and it feels good under there,” she had added. Town, history, and heritage engulfed in fire Apart from the banyan tree, an 1830s-era Baldwin Home Museum was reduced to ash, confirmed Lahaina Restoration Foundation Executive Director Theo Morrison to CNN. The Waiola Church, where English and Hawaiian prayers echoed for decades, was also engulfed by wildfire flames. The area also houses the Wo Hing Temple Museum, a social and religious meeting place for the Chinese immigrant community of the island. That has also suffered destruction, as seen by satellite imagery. In 1909, Chinese immigrants who had come to Maui as contract sugar plantation labourers and settled there permanently created the Wo Hing Society, as per the National Park Service. The Lahaina Heritage Museum, which is located on the west of the banyan tree, is also situated amid a field of fire debris which has been captured by satellite images. WATCH | Hawai wildfires: More than 14,000 people relocated from Maui, death toll rises to 53 The structure earlier provided an interactive look at Lahaina's history, from the epoch before European contact to the Monarchy era, which included the whaling and missionary period, and from the Plantation era to early tourism, said the website. “I can say everything in Lahaina is gone,” said Maui resident Dustin Kaleiopu, while speaking to CNN. “Everyone that I know and love, everyone that I’m related to, that I communicate with, my colleagues, friends, family – we’re all homeless,” he added. The governor on Thursday said that the town, “with a few rare exceptions, has been burned down”. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Maui wildfires: Largest banyan tree, 200-year-old church among landmarks charred

<p>China on Friday (August 11) claimed to have recently uncovered a US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) "case of espionage" which involved a Chinese national named Zeng who provided "core secret information" for money.<br />
<br />
Beijing has been making efforts to combat spying, which includes the implementation of a revised anti-espionage law last month which gives more power to the authorities than ever to punish what looks&nbsp;like threats to national security.<br />
<br />
"After meticulous investigation, the state security authority obtained evidence of Zeng's espionage activities and, in accordance with the law, took coercive measures against him to eliminate the harm in a timely manner," said Beijing's Ministry of State Security, in a statement published online.<br />
<br />
However, no details on the punishment of Zeng were provided. The statement read that 52-year-old Zeng was sent to Italy for studies, where he made friends with a CIA agent who was stationed at the US embassy in Rome.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slips-into-deflation-as-demand-weakens-across-country-623664">China slips into deflation as demand weakens across country</a></p>

<p>Zeng was convinced by the individual to provide "sensitive information on the (Chinese) military" in exchange for "a huge amount of compensation" as well as assistance for Zeng and his family to shift to the United States.<br />
<br />
As per reports, Zeng signed a contract with the US side and was provided training before he returned to China to carry out the espionage activity. In China, the case quickly gathered widespread attention as it reached the top of the trending topics list on the social media site Weibo on Friday morning.</p>

<h2><strong>US businesses spooked by revision of China's anti-espionage law</strong></h2>

<p>The revision of the anti-espionage law by Beijing has spooked many US businesses&nbsp;that have operations in China, as relations between the two nations continue the&nbsp;downward spiral.<br />
<br />
Under the changes, "relying on espionage organisations and their agents" as well as the unauthorised obtaining of "documents, data, materials, and items related to national security and interests" can be considered a spying offence.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;A stranded WWII ship in disputed shoal flames tensions with China</strong></p>

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<p>The changes "have raised legitimate concerns about conducting certain routine business activities, which now risk being considered espionage", wrote Craig Allen, president of the US-China Business Council, in a recent blog.<br />
<br />
"Confidence in China's market will suffer further if the law is applied frequently and without a clear, narrow and direct link to activities universally recognised as espionage," Allen added.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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China on Friday (August 11) claimed to have recently uncovered a US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) "case of espionage" which involved a Chinese national named Zeng who provided "core secret information" for money.

China on Friday (August 11) claimed to have recently uncovered a US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) "case of espionage" which involved a Chinese national named Zeng who provided "core secret information" for money. Beijing has been making efforts to combat spying, which includes the implementation of a revised anti-espionage law last month which gives more power to the authorities than ever to punish what looks like threats to national security. "After meticulous investigation, the state security authority obtained evidence of Zeng's espionage activities and, in accordance with the law, took coercive measures against him to eliminate the harm in a timely manner," said Beijing's Ministry of State Security, in a statement published online. However, no details on the punishment of Zeng were provided. The statement read that 52-year-old Zeng was sent to Italy for studies, where he made friends with a CIA agent who was stationed at the US embassy in Rome. ALSO READ | China slips into deflation as demand weakens across country Zeng was convinced by the individual to provide "sensitive information on the (Chinese) military" in exchange for "a huge amount of compensation" as well as assistance for Zeng and his family to shift to the United States. As per reports, Zeng signed a contract with the US side and was provided training before he returned to China to carry out the espionage activity. In China, the case quickly gathered widespread attention as it reached the top of the trending topics list on the social media site Weibo on Friday morning. US businesses spooked by revision of China's anti-espionage law The revision of the anti-espionage law by Beijing has spooked many US businesses that have operations in China, as relations between the two nations continue the downward spiral. Under the changes, "relying on espionage organisations and their agents" as well as the unauthorised obtaining of "documents, data, materials, and items related to national security and interests" can be considered a spying offence. WATCH | A stranded WWII ship in disputed shoal flames tensions with China The changes "have raised legitimate concerns about conducting certain routine business activities, which now risk being considered espionage", wrote Craig Allen, president of the US-China Business Council, in a recent blog. "Confidence in China's market will suffer further if the law is applied frequently and without a clear, narrow and direct link to activities universally recognised as espionage," Allen added. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China claims to have exposed CIA espionage plot after arrest of alleged agent

<p>Russia's defence ministry on Thursday (August 10) said that 11 Ukrainian drones were downed near Crimea overnight, as well as two drones which were flying toward the capital Moscow were shot down.</p>

<p>"Two UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) flying in the direction of the city of Moscow were destroyed," said the ministry in a statement. "Near the city of Sevastopol, two UAVs were hit by on-duty anti-aircraft defence equipment, another 9 were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and crashed in the Black Sea before reaching the target," it added.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The ministry stated that no reports of casualties or damage emerged from any of the affected areas. The strikes take place a day after Russia claimed two Ukrainian combat drones which were moving in the direction of Moscow were shot down, making it the fourth attack that took place near the capital city in a week.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-ukraine-war-west-getting-sobering-updates-on-ukrainian-counteroffensive-623572">Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive</a></p>

<p>Till a series of attacks in recent months, Moscow was not being targeted during the conflict in Ukraine, which started more than a year ago. However, the Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula has faced several strikes amid the hostilities and has witnessed more frequent attacks in recent weeks.</p>

<p>On Saturday, Russia said that a drone was downed over the ocean near Sevastopol, which was the base of its Black Sea fleet. In July, an ammunition depot was blown up by the Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea and the bridge across the Kerch Strait, which linked Russia's mainland to the peninsula was damaged.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last month warned that "war" was coming to Russia, as the country's "symbolic centres and military bases" were becoming targets.</p>

<h2><strong>Air attacks escalate in wake of&nbsp;Kyiv's&nbsp;counteroffensive</strong></h2>

<p>Since Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, air attacks have multiplied, though modest advances have been made by the Ukrainian forces on the ground in the face of stiff resistance from troops of Moscow.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Russian officials on Wednesday stated that one person lost his life and four others suffered injuries by Ukrainian shelling on the border town of Gorkovsky which is located in the southern Belgorod region, where regular strikes take place.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv unleashes drones near Russian capital, hit radar station</strong></p>

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<p>On the front line's other side, an oil depot in the Rivne region of Ukraine was destroyed during a "massive drone attack" on Thursday, said governor Vitaliy Koval, adding the investigators and emergency services were on the scene.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, two people were killed in a strike in Ukraine's southern city of Zaporizhzhia, while one woman and a young girl were killed in the Donetsk region.</p>

<p><em><strong>Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos</strong></em></p>

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Russia's defence ministry on Thursday (August 10) said that 11 Ukrainian drones were downed near Crimea overnight, as well as two drones which were flying toward the capital Moscow were shot down.

Russia's defence ministry on Thursday (August 10) said that 11 Ukrainian drones were downed near Crimea overnight, as well as two drones which were flying toward the capital Moscow were shot down. "Two UAVs (unmanned aerial vehicles) flying in the direction of the city of Moscow were destroyed," said the ministry in a statement. "Near the city of Sevastopol, two UAVs were hit by on-duty anti-aircraft defence equipment, another 9 were suppressed by means of electronic warfare and crashed in the Black Sea before reaching the target," it added. The ministry stated that no reports of casualties or damage emerged from any of the affected areas. The strikes take place a day after Russia claimed two Ukrainian combat drones which were moving in the direction of Moscow were shot down, making it the fourth attack that took place near the capital city in a week. ALSO READ | Russia-Ukraine war: West getting 'sobering' updates on Ukrainian counteroffensive Till a series of attacks in recent months, Moscow was not being targeted during the conflict in Ukraine, which started more than a year ago. However, the Russia-annexed Crimean peninsula has faced several strikes amid the hostilities and has witnessed more frequent attacks in recent weeks. On Saturday, Russia said that a drone was downed over the ocean near Sevastopol, which was the base of its Black Sea fleet. In July, an ammunition depot was blown up by the Ukrainian drone strikes on Crimea and the bridge across the Kerch Strait, which linked Russia's mainland to the peninsula was damaged. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky last month warned that "war" was coming to Russia, as the country's "symbolic centres and military bases" were becoming targets. Air attacks escalate in wake of Kyiv's counteroffensive Since Kyiv started a counteroffensive in June, air attacks have multiplied, though modest advances have been made by the Ukrainian forces on the ground in the face of stiff resistance from troops of Moscow. Russian officials on Wednesday stated that one person lost his life and four others suffered injuries by Ukrainian shelling on the border town of Gorkovsky which is located in the southern Belgorod region, where regular strikes take place. WATCH | Russia-Ukraine War: Kyiv unleashes drones near Russian capital, hit radar station On the front line's other side, an oil depot in the Rivne region of Ukraine was destroyed during a "massive drone attack" on Thursday, said governor Vitaliy Koval, adding the investigators and emergency services were on the scene. On Wednesday, two people were killed in a strike in Ukraine's southern city of Zaporizhzhia, while one woman and a young girl were killed in the Donetsk region. Disclaimer: A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on Ukraine-Russia war on the ground and online. While WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Russia claims 11 Ukrainian drones downed near Crimea, two more heading towards Moscow shot

<p>North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the top general of the military and directed officials to make more preparations&nbsp;in the wake of the increasing possibility of war, by expanding military drills and increasing weapons production, reported state media KCNA on Thursday (August 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The comments were made by Kim at one of the meetings of the Central Military Commission in which they discussed plans for countermeasures to deter the enemies of North Korea, which were not named, said the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p>North Korea's top general, Chief of the General Staff Pak Su Il was "dismissed", reported KCNA. The official had been serving in the government as the military's top general for about seven months.</p>

<p>General Ri Yong Gil, who had earlier held the position of the country's defence minister and also the top commander of its conventional troops, replaced Pak.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/north-korea-defends-its-nuclear-weapons-slams-us-622655">North Korea defends its nuclear weapons, slams US</a></p>

<p>Ri was also previously appointed as the army chief of staff. In 2016 when he was replaced, Ri's sacking and his non-attendance at official events sparked rumours of his execution in South Korea. However, a few months later, he reappeared after his name was proposed for another senior post.</p>

<p>Kim also decided on a target for the expansion of weapons production capacity, said the report, without giving any further details. The leader visited weapons factories last week where he asked to increase the number of missile engines, artillery and other weapons to be built.</p>

<p>In the photos released by KCNA, Kim was seen pointing at Seoul and areas surrounding the capital of South Korea on a map.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>North Korea to stage militia parade on September 9</strong></h2>

<p>North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, which includes artillery shells, rockets and missiles. The claims have been denied by Russia and North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The military was also asked by Kim Jong Un to conduct drills with the latest weapons and equipment of the country to keep its forces ready for combat, stated the report.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Kim Jong-un inspects arms units in North Korea</strong></p>

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/kim-jong-un-inspects-arms-units-in-north-korea-622877/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

<p>North Korea will be staging a militia parade on September 9, which will mark the 75th anniversary of the Day of the Foundation of the Republic. The country has numerous paramilitary groups which it uses to bolster its military forces.</p>

<p>The United States and South Korea will be conducting military drills between August 21 and August 24, which is seen as a threat to security by North Korea.&nbsp;</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the top general of the military and directed officials to make more preparations in the wake of the increasing possibility of war, by expanding military drills and increasing weapons production, reported state media KCNA on Thursday (August 10).

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un dismissed the top general of the military and directed officials to make more preparations in the wake of the increasing possibility of war, by expanding military drills and increasing weapons production, reported state media KCNA on Thursday (August 10). The comments were made by Kim at one of the meetings of the Central Military Commission in which they discussed plans for countermeasures to deter the enemies of North Korea, which were not named, said the report. North Korea's top general, Chief of the General Staff Pak Su Il was "dismissed", reported KCNA. The official had been serving in the government as the military's top general for about seven months. General Ri Yong Gil, who had earlier held the position of the country's defence minister and also the top commander of its conventional troops, replaced Pak. ALSO READ | North Korea defends its nuclear weapons, slams US Ri was also previously appointed as the army chief of staff. In 2016 when he was replaced, Ri's sacking and his non-attendance at official events sparked rumours of his execution in South Korea. However, a few months later, he reappeared after his name was proposed for another senior post. Kim also decided on a target for the expansion of weapons production capacity, said the report, without giving any further details. The leader visited weapons factories last week where he asked to increase the number of missile engines, artillery and other weapons to be built. In the photos released by KCNA, Kim was seen pointing at Seoul and areas surrounding the capital of South Korea on a map. North Korea to stage militia parade on September 9 North Korea has been accused by the United States of providing arms to Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, which includes artillery shells, rockets and missiles. The claims have been denied by Russia and North Korea. The military was also asked by Kim Jong Un to conduct drills with the latest weapons and equipment of the country to keep its forces ready for combat, stated the report. WATCH | Kim Jong-un inspects arms units in North Korea North Korea will be staging a militia parade on September 9, which will mark the 75th anniversary of the Day of the Foundation of the Republic. The country has numerous paramilitary groups which it uses to bolster its military forces. The United States and South Korea will be conducting military drills between August 21 and August 24, which is seen as a threat to security by North Korea. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

North Korea's Kim asks army to prepare for possible war, dismisses top general

<p>Canada stated that a misinformation campaign targeting one of its parliament members was detected by it on the Chinese instant-messaging app WeChat.</p>

<p>Conservative politician Michael Chong allegedly emerged as the target of posts sharing "misleading narratives" about the leader's political views, background, and family heritage.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Global Affairs Canada (GAC) stated that it is "highly probable" that China has been orchestrating the WeChat campaign against him. The accusations have been denied by China.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Canadian officials rarely come ahead with information related to foreign interference. The recent allegations were revealed in a rare statement by GAC on Wednesday (August 9).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The department cautioned that it is not easy to trace the origin of the attacks because of the campaign's nature.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/some-people-who-came-to-canada-on-student-visa-involved-in-criminal-activity-border-agency-624154">Some Indians who came to Canada on student visas involved in gang activity: Border agency</a></p>

<p>"Unequivocal proof that China ordered and directed the operation is not possible to determine due to the covert nature of how social media networks are leveraged in this type of information campaign," it stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Chinese embassy calls accusations 'purely groundless'</strong></h2>

<p>The latest step is part of the wider series of claims which were made in recent months by Canadian intelligence agencies and officials that Beijing has been interfering in the elections of Canada.&nbsp;</p>

<p>GAC said that attacks against Chong were uncovered while monitoring social media and the internet's other parts for foreign interference ahead of a 19 June by-election. The attacks were seen emerging from news accounts on WeChat which amplified falsehoods about Chong.</p>

<p>They claimed that the attacks appeared co-ordinated and abnormal in volume. The GAC stated that one-third of the accounts which were amplifying the attacks were either accounts likely linked to the Chinese state or state-media outlets. The rest accounts were anonymous and no previous posts were made about Canadian politics.</p>

<p>The Chinese embassy in Canada, in a statement to the BBC, called the accusations "purely groundless". "We never interfere in Canada's internal affairs, and have no interests whatsoever in doing so," the statement stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>GAC stated that it will be speaking to Chinese representatives in Canada regarding the posts, adding that "Canada will never accept any form of interference in our democracy or internal affairs".&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;US, Canada issue new sanctions against top Russian ally Belarus</strong></p>

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<p>Chong, in a media statement on Wednesday (August 9), called the campaign against him "another serious example of the communist government in Beijing attempting to interfere in our democracy by targeting elected officials".</p>

<p>In the past, Canada has accused China of targeting both Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong after he emphasised the human rights abuses in China.</p>

<p><em>(With inputs from agencies)</em></p>

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Canada stated that a misinformation campaign targeting one of its parliament members was detected by it on the Chinese instant-messaging app WeChat. Conservative politician Michael Chong allegedly emerged as the target of posts sharing "misleading narratives" about the leader's political views, background, and family heritage.

Canada stated that a misinformation campaign targeting one of its parliament members was detected by it on the Chinese instant-messaging app WeChat. Conservative politician Michael Chong allegedly emerged as the target of posts sharing "misleading narratives" about the leader's political views, background, and family heritage. Global Affairs Canada (GAC) stated that it is "highly probable" that China has been orchestrating the WeChat campaign against him. The accusations have been denied by China. Canadian officials rarely come ahead with information related to foreign interference. The recent allegations were revealed in a rare statement by GAC on Wednesday (August 9). The department cautioned that it is not easy to trace the origin of the attacks because of the campaign's nature. ALSO READ | Some Indians who came to Canada on student visas involved in gang activity: Border agency "Unequivocal proof that China ordered and directed the operation is not possible to determine due to the covert nature of how social media networks are leveraged in this type of information campaign," it stated. Chinese embassy calls accusations 'purely groundless' The latest step is part of the wider series of claims which were made in recent months by Canadian intelligence agencies and officials that Beijing has been interfering in the elections of Canada. GAC said that attacks against Chong were uncovered while monitoring social media and the internet's other parts for foreign interference ahead of a 19 June by-election. The attacks were seen emerging from news accounts on WeChat which amplified falsehoods about Chong. They claimed that the attacks appeared co-ordinated and abnormal in volume. The GAC stated that one-third of the accounts which were amplifying the attacks were either accounts likely linked to the Chinese state or state-media outlets. The rest accounts were anonymous and no previous posts were made about Canadian politics. The Chinese embassy in Canada, in a statement to the BBC, called the accusations "purely groundless". "We never interfere in Canada's internal affairs, and have no interests whatsoever in doing so," the statement stated. GAC stated that it will be speaking to Chinese representatives in Canada regarding the posts, adding that "Canada will never accept any form of interference in our democracy or internal affairs". WATCH | US, Canada issue new sanctions against top Russian ally Belarus Chong, in a media statement on Wednesday (August 9), called the campaign against him "another serious example of the communist government in Beijing attempting to interfere in our democracy by targeting elected officials". In the past, Canada has accused China of targeting both Chong and his relatives in Hong Kong after he emphasised the human rights abuses in China. (With inputs from agencies) You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China targeting lawmaker in misinformation campaign on WeChat, alleges Canada

<p>A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The variant, which is known as EG.5 or “Eris”, is connected to an Omicron subvariant called XBB.1.9.2, and has been increasing its prevalence globally, and countries like the UK, China and the United States are emerging as the most affected.</p>

<p>However, the WHO has further stated that the variant is not posing any particular threat. “Based on the available evidence, the public health risk posed by EG.5 is evaluated as low at the global level,” said the agency, stating that the risk looked to be at part with other circulating variants of interest.</p>

<p>“While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity to date,” the WHO stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/covid-variant-eris-on-rise-in-uk-as-experts-say-country-flying-blind-on-infection-622835">Covid variant 'Eris' on rise in UK, as experts say country ‘flying blind’ on infection</a></p>

<h2><strong>Variant better at evading body's immune system: WHO&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Professor of operational research at University College London, Christina Pagel, said that although the variant has been increasing in prevalence and seems to be better at evading the body's immune system which permits it to outcompete other variants, there is a lack of evidence that it can cause more severe disease.</p>

<p>“It will probably cause a wave of more cases and all the problems that brings – [such as] more hospitalisations and Long Covid – but [there is] no reason at the moment to think [that will be] worse than previous waves this year,” she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Pagel stated that the waning immunity due to previous infections or vaccinations may mean that the wave of EG.5 took longer to peak and hence, it may be larger.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) last week published an update which suggested EG.5, and more specifically its subvariant EG5.1 accounts for around 15 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases in England.</p>

<p>Deputy director of UKHSA, Dr Meera Chand, said that the new variants' emergence is not unexpected. “UKHSA continues to analyse available data relating to Sars-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad. EG.5.1 was designated as a variant on 31 July 2023 due to continued growth internationally and presence in the UK, allowing us to monitor it through our routine surveillance processes," she said.</p>

<p>“Vaccination remains our best defence against future Covid-19 waves, so it is still as important as ever that people come to take up all the doses for which they are eligible as soon as possible," added Chand.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: New Covid variant 'Eris' spreading across the UK</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>US sees rise in EG.5 cases&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>Cases of new COVID-19 variant EG.5 are on the rise in the United States and are leading to around 17 per cent of the new coronavirus cases in the country in comparison to 16 per cent for the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, as per the latest estimates presented by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, reported CNN.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Professor of microbiology and immunology Dr David Ho has been carrying out tests of these variants in his lab at Columbia University to understand their resistance to the antibodies&nbsp;</p>

<p>"Both are only slightly more resistant to neutralising antibodies in the serum of infected and vaccinated persons. It basically has some more immune escape compared to the ones that were precedents in this XBB series," stated Dr Eric Topol, a cardiologist at the Scripps Translational Research Institute. "It has an advantage, which is why it's getting legs all around the world," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk.

A new strain of coronavirus has been labelled as a 'variant of interest' by the World Health Organisation, although the officials have predicted a low public health risk. The variant, which is known as EG.5 or “Eris”, is connected to an Omicron subvariant called XBB.1.9.2, and has been increasing its prevalence globally, and countries like the UK, China and the United States are emerging as the most affected. However, the WHO has further stated that the variant is not posing any particular threat. “Based on the available evidence, the public health risk posed by EG.5 is evaluated as low at the global level,” said the agency, stating that the risk looked to be at part with other circulating variants of interest. “While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity to date,” the WHO stated. ALSO READ | Covid variant 'Eris' on rise in UK, as experts say country ‘flying blind’ on infection Variant better at evading body's immune system: WHO Professor of operational research at University College London, Christina Pagel, said that although the variant has been increasing in prevalence and seems to be better at evading the body's immune system which permits it to outcompete other variants, there is a lack of evidence that it can cause more severe disease. “It will probably cause a wave of more cases and all the problems that brings – [such as] more hospitalisations and Long Covid – but [there is] no reason at the moment to think [that will be] worse than previous waves this year,” she stated. Pagel stated that the waning immunity due to previous infections or vaccinations may mean that the wave of EG.5 took longer to peak and hence, it may be larger. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) last week published an update which suggested EG.5, and more specifically its subvariant EG5.1 accounts for around 15 per cent of sequenced COVID-19 cases in England. Deputy director of UKHSA, Dr Meera Chand, said that the new variants' emergence is not unexpected. “UKHSA continues to analyse available data relating to Sars-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad. EG.5.1 was designated as a variant on 31 July 2023 due to continued growth internationally and presence in the UK, allowing us to monitor it through our routine surveillance processes," she said. “Vaccination remains our best defence against future Covid-19 waves, so it is still as important as ever that people come to take up all the doses for which they are eligible as soon as possible," added Chand. WATCH | Gravitas: New Covid variant 'Eris' spreading across the UK US sees rise in EG.5 cases Cases of new COVID-19 variant EG.5 are on the rise in the United States and are leading to around 17 per cent of the new coronavirus cases in the country in comparison to 16 per cent for the next most common lineage, XBB.1.16, as per the latest estimates presented by the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, reported CNN. Professor of microbiology and immunology Dr David Ho has been carrying out tests of these variants in his lab at Columbia University to understand their resistance to the antibodies "Both are only slightly more resistant to neutralising antibodies in the serum of infected and vaccinated persons. It basically has some more immune escape compared to the ones that were precedents in this XBB series," stated Dr Eric Topol, a cardiologist at the Scripps Translational Research Institute. "It has an advantage, which is why it's getting legs all around the world," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

WHO designates new Covid strain ‘Eris’ as 'variant of interest' amid global surge in cases

<p>India’s company law tribunal approved a merger between Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd and Sony Group Corp.’s South Asian unit on Thursday (August 10), paving the way for the creation of a media giant.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The merger is aimed at creating a $10 billion Indian media giant which was given necessary regulatory approvals from the stock exchanges of the country, along with the antitrust regulator last year. However, the proposed merger faced legal challenges from creditors in front of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), where the companies sought their last approvals.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After the announcement, shares of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) increased by 15 per cent on Thursday. The shares of Zee were trading at 14.32 per cent at Rs 276.95 at around 3:22 pm before markets closed.</p>

<p>Partner at ASR &amp; Associates Anuj Tiwari said that the NCLT in its order dismissed objections to the scheme, paving the way for a merger which will benefit all stakeholders.</p>

<p>Zee Entertainment Managing Director and CEO Punit Goenka said the merger will go ahead regardless of his position in the resultant entity. As per the agreement, ZEEL's CEO will serve as the MD and CEO of the combined company for five years.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Sony Pictures Networks India Private Limited (SPNI) and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL) had earlier announced that they have signed definitive agreements to merge ZEEL with and into SPNI and combine their linear networks, digital assets, production operations and programme libraries.</p>

<p>The agreements had followed the conclusion of an exclusive negotiation period during which ZEEL and SPNI conducted mutual due diligence.</p>

<p>Under the terms of the definitive agreements, SPNI will have cash balance of USD $1.5 billion (assuming an Indian rupee- US dollar exchange rate of 75:1) at closing, including through infusion by the current shareholders of SPNI and the promoters (founders) of ZEEL.</p>

<p>This will enable the combined company to drive sharper content creation across platforms, strengthen its footprint in the rapidly evolving digital ecosystem, bid for media rights in the fast-growing sports landscape and pursue other growth opportunities.</p>

<p>SPNI is an indirect subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc (SPE). Under the transactions contemplated by a non-compete agreement, SPE, through a subsidiary, will pay a non-compete fee to certain promoters (founders) of ZEEL, which will be used by such promoters (founders) to infuse primary equity capital into SPNI, entitling the promoters (founders) of ZEEL to acquire shares of SPNI, according to the companies.</p>

<p>This would eventually equal approximately 2.11 per cent of the shares of the combined company on a post-closing basis. After the closing, SPE will indirectly hold a majority 50.86 per cent of the combined company, the promoters (founders) of ZEEL will hold 3.99%, and the other ZEEL shareholders will hold a 45.15 per cent stake.</p>

<p>The combination of ZEEL and SPNI is expected to achieve business synergies and given their relative strengths in scripted, factual and sports programming, respective distribution footprints across India and iconic entertainment brands, the combined company should be well-positioned to meet the growing consumer demand for premium content across entertainment touchpoints and platforms.</p>

<p>The seamless blend of rich expertise in content creation, deep consumer insights and success across entertainment genres is expected to drive the combined company’s ability to accrue higher shareholder value.</p>

<p>Under the stewardship of the Sony Group, a global leader in consumer technologies, gaming and entertainment, the combined company is expected to be able to better compete with the world’s largest streaming players.</p>

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India’s company law tribunal approved a merger between Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd and Sony Group Corp.’s South Asian unit on Thursday (August 10), paving the way for the creation of a media giant.

India’s company law tribunal approved a merger between Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd and Sony Group Corp.’s South Asian unit on Thursday (August 10), paving the way for the creation of a media giant. The merger is aimed at creating a $10 billion Indian media giant which was given necessary regulatory approvals from the stock exchanges of the country, along with the antitrust regulator last year. However, the proposed merger faced legal challenges from creditors in front of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT), where the companies sought their last approvals. After the announcement, shares of Zee Entertainment Enterprises Limited (ZEEL) increased by 15 per cent on Thursday. The shares of Zee were trading at 14.32 per cent at Rs 276.95 at around 3:22 pm before markets closed. Partner at ASR & Associates Anuj Tiwari said that the NCLT in its order dismissed objections to the scheme, paving the way for a merger which will benefit all stakeholders. Zee Entertainment Managing Director and CEO Punit Goenka said the merger will go ahead regardless of his position in the resultant entity. As per the agreement, ZEEL's CEO will serve as the MD and CEO of the combined company for five years. Sony Pictures Networks India Private Limited (SPNI) and Zee Entertainment Enterprises Ltd. (ZEEL) had earlier announced that they have signed definitive agreements to merge ZEEL with and into SPNI and combine their linear networks, digital assets, production operations and programme libraries. The agreements had followed the conclusion of an exclusive negotiation period during which ZEEL and SPNI conducted mutual due diligence. Under the terms of the definitive agreements, SPNI will have cash balance of USD $1.5 billion (assuming an Indian rupee- US dollar exchange rate of 75:1) at closing, including through infusion by the current shareholders of SPNI and the promoters (founders) of ZEEL. This will enable the combined company to drive sharper content creation across platforms, strengthen its footprint in the rapidly evolving digital ecosystem, bid for media rights in the fast-growing sports landscape and pursue other growth opportunities. SPNI is an indirect subsidiary of Sony Pictures Entertainment Inc (SPE). Under the transactions contemplated by a non-compete agreement, SPE, through a subsidiary, will pay a non-compete fee to certain promoters (founders) of ZEEL, which will be used by such promoters (founders) to infuse primary equity capital into SPNI, entitling the promoters (founders) of ZEEL to acquire shares of SPNI, according to the companies. This would eventually equal approximately 2.11 per cent of the shares of the combined company on a post-closing basis. After the closing, SPE will indirectly hold a majority 50.86 per cent of the combined company, the promoters (founders) of ZEEL will hold 3.99%, and the other ZEEL shareholders will hold a 45.15 per cent stake. The combination of ZEEL and SPNI is expected to achieve business synergies and given their relative strengths in scripted, factual and sports programming, respective distribution footprints across India and iconic entertainment brands, the combined company should be well-positioned to meet the growing consumer demand for premium content across entertainment touchpoints and platforms. The seamless blend of rich expertise in content creation, deep consumer insights and success across entertainment genres is expected to drive the combined company’s ability to accrue higher shareholder value. Under the stewardship of the Sony Group, a global leader in consumer technologies, gaming and entertainment, the combined company is expected to be able to better compete with the world’s largest streaming players. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Indian tribunal confirms Zee Entertainment-Sony merger, paves way for big media giant

<p>The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10).&nbsp;</p>

<p>The 21-member administration will be led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine with new military governing council's generals heading the defence and interior ministries.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/explained-what-sanctions-is-niger-facing-following-the-july-26-coup-623756">Explained: What are the sanctions Niger is facing following the July 26 coup?</a></p>

<h2><strong>West African bloc to attend key summit on Niger coup</strong></h2>

<p>West African bloc ECOWAS leaders will be meeting for an emergency summit on the coup in Niger on Thursday (August 10), after the military chiefs of the country defied an ultimatum to restore the elected president.</p>

<p>Two weeks after the coup which removed Mohamed Bazoum from his position, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stated that it is looking at a diplomatic solution but the use of force has not been ruled out by them to resolve the crisis.</p>

<p>Important decisions are likely to be made in the gathering in Nigeria's capital Abuja, &nbsp;as per the statement issued by the 15-nation organisation on Tuesday.</p>

<p>The bloc, which is struggling to stem a cascade of coups among its members, had given the troops an ultimatum to either reinstate Bazoum till last Sunday or face the potential use of force.</p>

<p>However, the coup leaders remained defiant and no action was taken against them.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Niger coup: West is supporting ECOWAS. Will Russia make a move in Niger like it did in Mali?</strong></p>

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<h2><strong>UN chief expresses concern over 'deplorable' detention conditions of Niger's president</strong></h2>

<p>UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns over reports of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and his family's &nbsp;"deplorable living conditions" in arbitrary detention and called for his release, said a UN spokesperson in a statement on Wednesday (August 9).</p>

<p>Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised "the deplorable living conditions that President Bazoum and his family are reported to be living under," as per a UN statement.</p>

<p>On Wednesday, CNN reported that Bazoum was kept isolated and was forced to consume dry rice and pasta by the rebels after he was overthrown by them in a coup late last month.</p>

<p>In a series of text messages which were sent to a friend by Bazoum, the president said he had been "deprived of all human contact since Friday", with no one supplying him medicine or food, reported the network.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Guterres "reiterates his concern over the health and safety of the President and his family and once again calls for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as Head of State," said the UN chief's spokesman in a statement.</p>

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The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10).

The military leaders in Niger who came to power last month after a coup, in their latest display of resistance against international pressure, formed a new government, as per a decree read out on national television on Thursday (August 10). The 21-member administration will be led by Prime Minister Ali Mahaman Lamine Zeine with new military governing council's generals heading the defence and interior ministries. ALSO READ | Explained: What are the sanctions Niger is facing following the July 26 coup? West African bloc to attend key summit on Niger coup West African bloc ECOWAS leaders will be meeting for an emergency summit on the coup in Niger on Thursday (August 10), after the military chiefs of the country defied an ultimatum to restore the elected president. Two weeks after the coup which removed Mohamed Bazoum from his position, the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) stated that it is looking at a diplomatic solution but the use of force has not been ruled out by them to resolve the crisis. Important decisions are likely to be made in the gathering in Nigeria's capital Abuja, as per the statement issued by the 15-nation organisation on Tuesday. The bloc, which is struggling to stem a cascade of coups among its members, had given the troops an ultimatum to either reinstate Bazoum till last Sunday or face the potential use of force. However, the coup leaders remained defiant and no action was taken against them. WATCH | Niger coup: West is supporting ECOWAS. Will Russia make a move in Niger like it did in Mali? UN chief expresses concern over 'deplorable' detention conditions of Niger's president UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed his concerns over reports of Niger President Mohamed Bazoum and his family's "deplorable living conditions" in arbitrary detention and called for his release, said a UN spokesperson in a statement on Wednesday (August 9). Secretary-General Antonio Guterres criticised "the deplorable living conditions that President Bazoum and his family are reported to be living under," as per a UN statement. On Wednesday, CNN reported that Bazoum was kept isolated and was forced to consume dry rice and pasta by the rebels after he was overthrown by them in a coup late last month. In a series of text messages which were sent to a friend by Bazoum, the president said he had been "deprived of all human contact since Friday", with no one supplying him medicine or food, reported the network. Guterres "reiterates his concern over the health and safety of the President and his family and once again calls for his immediate, unconditional release and his reinstatement as Head of State," said the UN chief's spokesman in a statement. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Niger coup military leaders form new government by decree

<p>An Indonesian woman, who had left her Central Java hometown for the capital city Jakarta where she got a job as a maid to help her parents with debt, was beaten, tortured, chained to a dog cage and forced to eat animal faeces by her employer.&nbsp;</p>

<p>After going through months of harassment, the 24-year-old walks with a limp and has visible burn scars along her legs.</p>

<p>"My head hurts every time I think about what happened to me," she stated, sobbing. The case of Siti Khotimah is not unique in Indonesia, a country which does not have a bill to protect domestic workers because of which more than four million people, mostly women, are vulnerable to abuse.</p>

<p><strong>ALSO READ |</strong>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-arrests-muslim-preacher-on-charges-including-blasphemy-and-hate-speech-621782">Indonesia arrests Muslim preacher on charges including blasphemy and hate speech</a></p>

<p>Last month, Khotimah's 70-year-old employer was imprisoned for four years for physical abuse in south Jakarta, while the husband and daughter of the woman and six other maids were all handed three-and-a-half years.</p>

<p>Speaking to AFP, Khotimah said that she was also raped during her employment, however, she was unable to talk about it. Since then, she has informed the police who asked her to file a separate lawsuit for sexual abuse.</p>

<p>"I am very disappointed, the sentence is so light compared to what happened to me. They should have felt what I feel," she stated.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Indonesia's discriminatory laws</strong></h2>

<p>For nearly two decades, a domestic worker bill has remained in limbo and the government has been accused by activists of dragging its feet.</p>

<p>Under the current legal framework of the government, maids have not been classified as workers which forced them to operate in an unregulated and informal economy.</p>

<p>Even if the law is finalised, it will only help those people who get recruited by agents for working overseas, as per the advocates.</p>

<p>"The law is very discriminatory," said lawmaker Willy Aditya, who heads the bill's working committee, while speaking to AFP.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Gravitas: Sexual abuse at Miss Universe Indonesia</strong></p>

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<p>Women's rights activists stated that more efforts are needed by the government to support domestic helpers within Indonesia.</p>

<p>"Khotimah's case is not the first. The government's response has always been slow," stated Tiasri Wiandani of the National Commission for Eradication of Violence against Women.</p>

<p>"Demanding protection from other countries while we have not fulfilled the responsibilities ourselves is like a slap in our face," he added.&nbsp;</p>

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An Indonesian woman, who had left her Central Java hometown for the capital city Jakarta where she got a job as a maid to help her parents with debt, was beaten, tortured, chained to a dog cage and forced to eat animal faeces by her employer.

An Indonesian woman, who had left her Central Java hometown for the capital city Jakarta where she got a job as a maid to help her parents with debt, was beaten, tortured, chained to a dog cage and forced to eat animal faeces by her employer. After going through months of harassment, the 24-year-old walks with a limp and has visible burn scars along her legs. "My head hurts every time I think about what happened to me," she stated, sobbing. The case of Siti Khotimah is not unique in Indonesia, a country which does not have a bill to protect domestic workers because of which more than four million people, mostly women, are vulnerable to abuse. ALSO READ | Indonesia arrests Muslim preacher on charges including blasphemy and hate speech Last month, Khotimah's 70-year-old employer was imprisoned for four years for physical abuse in south Jakarta, while the husband and daughter of the woman and six other maids were all handed three-and-a-half years. Speaking to AFP, Khotimah said that she was also raped during her employment, however, she was unable to talk about it. Since then, she has informed the police who asked her to file a separate lawsuit for sexual abuse. "I am very disappointed, the sentence is so light compared to what happened to me. They should have felt what I feel," she stated. Indonesia's discriminatory laws For nearly two decades, a domestic worker bill has remained in limbo and the government has been accused by activists of dragging its feet. Under the current legal framework of the government, maids have not been classified as workers which forced them to operate in an unregulated and informal economy. Even if the law is finalised, it will only help those people who get recruited by agents for working overseas, as per the advocates. "The law is very discriminatory," said lawmaker Willy Aditya, who heads the bill's working committee, while speaking to AFP. WATCH | Gravitas: Sexual abuse at Miss Universe Indonesia Women's rights activists stated that more efforts are needed by the government to support domestic helpers within Indonesia. "Khotimah's case is not the first. The government's response has always been slow," stated Tiasri Wiandani of the National Commission for Eradication of Violence against Women. "Demanding protection from other countries while we have not fulfilled the responsibilities ourselves is like a slap in our face," he added. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Woman beaten, chained to dog cage and forced to eat animal faeces by employer in Indonesia

<p>Amid the&nbsp;controversy which has erupted after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi allegedly made a ‘flying kiss’ gesture in the parliament, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has come to his defence and said that his gesture was “affectionate”.</p>

<p>"I don't understand that when he was speaking, all the ministers were standing up. Ministers were creating obstructions. He made an affectionate gesture, what problem do you have with it? You are habitual of so much hatred that you fail to understand any gesture of love, of affection,” Chaturvedi stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>She further added that the words of Rahul Gandhi were not driven by animosity, even though he faced disqualification and subsequently clinched legal victory.</p>

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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> | Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi says, "I don't understand that when he was speaking, all the ministers were standing up. Ministers were creating obstructions. He made an affectionate gesture, what problem do you have with it? You are habitual of so much hatred… <a href="https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw">https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw</a> <a href="https://t.co/6VJNqoFpv9">pic.twitter.com/6VJNqoFpv9</a></p>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1689236399223156736?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 9, 2023</a></blockquote>
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<p><strong>ALSO READ |&nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rahul-gandhi-slams-govt-in-first-speech-since-return-as-mp-manipur-not-alive-anymore-623782">Rahul Gandhi slams govt in first speech since return as MP: Mother India has been murdered</a></p>

<p>“You disqualified Rahul Gandhi as an MP and ousted him from his residence. He came back after winning his cases. Still, he is not talking to you out of hatred. If you have a problem, it is your problem and nobody else's,” the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader stated.</p>

<h2><strong>Flying kiss controversy&nbsp;</strong></h2>

<p>A massive controversy erupted after Rahul Gandhi was accused by Smriti Irani of passing a flying kiss inside the Parliament premises, which also has women members.</p>

<p>“The one who was given the chance to speak before me, displayed indecency before leaving. It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament. Such undignified conduct has never before seen in the Parliament of the country...," Irani stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Asking for strict action to be taken against Rahul Gandhi, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) women MPs wrote a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker OM Birla. In the letter, they alleged that the Congress MP made inappropriate gestures and displayed indecent behaviour in the House.</p>

<p><strong>WATCH |&nbsp;Rahul Gandhi 'flying kiss' storm</strong></p>

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<p>"I would like to draw your attention towards the incident in the House by Rahul Gandhi, MP from Wayanad, Kerala. The said member has behaved in an indecent manner and made inappropriate gestures towards Smriti Irani, Union Minister and Member of this House while she was addressing the House. We demand stringent action against such behaviour by the Manner, which has not only insulted the dignity of women members in the House, it has also brought disrepute and lowered the dignity of this august House," the letter stated.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In a complaint, which was signed by more than 20 women parliamentarians, it was stated that the Congress member made an "inappropriate gesture" towards Smriti Irani while she was speaking in the House.</p>

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Amid the controversy which has erupted after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi allegedly made a ‘flying kiss’ gesture in the parliament, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has come to his defence and said that his gesture was “affectionate”.

Amid the controversy which has erupted after Congress MP Rahul Gandhi allegedly made a ‘flying kiss’ gesture in the parliament, Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi has come to his defence and said that his gesture was “affectionate”. "I don't understand that when he was speaking, all the ministers were standing up. Ministers were creating obstructions. He made an affectionate gesture, what problem do you have with it? You are habitual of so much hatred that you fail to understand any gesture of love, of affection,” Chaturvedi stated. She further added that the words of Rahul Gandhi were not driven by animosity, even though he faced disqualification and subsequently clinched legal victory. #WATCH | Shiv Sena (UBT) MP Priyanka Chaturvedi says, "I don't understand that when he was speaking, all the ministers were standing up. Ministers were creating obstructions. He made an affectionate gesture, what problem do you have with it? You are habitual of so much hatred… https://t.co/IudK9YS0zw pic.twitter.com/6VJNqoFpv9 — ANI (@ANI) August 9, 2023 × ALSO READ | Rahul Gandhi slams govt in first speech since return as MP: Mother India has been murdered “You disqualified Rahul Gandhi as an MP and ousted him from his residence. He came back after winning his cases. Still, he is not talking to you out of hatred. If you have a problem, it is your problem and nobody else's,” the Shiv Sena (UBT) leader stated. Flying kiss controversy A massive controversy erupted after Rahul Gandhi was accused by Smriti Irani of passing a flying kiss inside the Parliament premises, which also has women members. “The one who was given the chance to speak before me, displayed indecency before leaving. It is only a misogynistic man who can give a flying kiss to a Parliament which seats female members of Parliament. Such undignified conduct has never before seen in the Parliament of the country...," Irani stated. Asking for strict action to be taken against Rahul Gandhi, National Democratic Alliance (NDA) women MPs wrote a letter to Lok Sabha Speaker OM Birla. In the letter, they alleged that the Congress MP made inappropriate gestures and displayed indecent behaviour in the House. WATCH | Rahul Gandhi 'flying kiss' storm "I would like to draw your attention towards the incident in the House by Rahul Gandhi, MP from Wayanad, Kerala. The said member has behaved in an indecent manner and made inappropriate gestures towards Smriti Irani, Union Minister and Member of this House while she was addressing the House. We demand stringent action against such behaviour by the Manner, which has not only insulted the dignity of women members in the House, it has also brought disrepute and lowered the dignity of this august House," the letter stated. In a complaint, which was signed by more than 20 women parliamentarians, it was stated that the Congress member made an "inappropriate gesture" towards Smriti Irani while she was speaking in the House. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Rahul Gandhi's ex-colleague defends his ‘flying kiss’ act, calls it an ‘affectionate gesture’

<p>China will require all mobile app providers in the country to file business details with the government, its information ministry said, marking Beijing's latest effort to keep the industry on a tight leash.</p>

<p>The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) said late on Tuesday (August 8) that apps without proper filings will be punished after the grace period that will end in March next year, a move that experts say would potentially restrict the number of apps and hit small developers hard.</p>

<p>You Yunting, a lawyer with Shanghai-based DeBund Law Offices， said the order is effectively requiring approvals from the ministry. The new rule is primarily aimed at combating online fraud but it will impact on all apps in China, he said.</p>

<p>Rich Bishop, co-founder of app publishing firm AppInChina, said the new rule is also likely to affect foreign-based developers who have been able to publish their apps easily through Apple's App Store without showing any documentation to the Chinese government.</p>

<p>Bishop said that in order to comply with the new rules, app developers now must either have a company in China or work with a local publisher.</p>

<p>Apple did not immediately reply to a request for comment.</p>

<p>The iPhone maker pulled over a hundred artificial intelligence (AI) apps from its App Store last week to comply with regulations after China introduced a new licencing regime for generative AI apps for the country.</p>

<p>The ministry's notice also said entities "engaged in internet information services through apps in such fields as news, publishing, education, film and television and religion should also submit relevant documents."</p>

<p>The requirement could affect the availability of popular social media apps such as X, Facebook and Instagram. Use of such apps is not allowed in China, but they can be still downloaded from app stores, enabling Chinese to use them when travelling overseas.</p>

<p>China already requires mobile games to obtain licences before they launch in the country and it had purged tens of thousands of unlicensed games from various app stores in 2020.</p>

<p>Tencent's WeChat, China's most popular online social platform, said on Wednesday that mini apps, apps that can be opened within WeChat, must also follow the new rules.</p>

<p>The company said that new apps must complete the filing before launch starting in September while existing mini apps have until the end of March.</p>

<p>You can&nbsp;<strong>now write for&nbsp;wionews.com</strong>&nbsp;and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.</strong></p>

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China will require all mobile app providers in the country to file business details with the government, its information ministry said, marking Beijing's latest effort to keep the industry on a tight leash.

China will require all mobile app providers in the country to file business details with the government, its information ministry said, marking Beijing's latest effort to keep the industry on a tight leash. The Ministry of Industry and Information Technology (MIIT) said late on Tuesday (August 8) that apps without proper filings will be punished after the grace period that will end in March next year, a move that experts say would potentially restrict the number of apps and hit small developers hard. You Yunting, a lawyer with Shanghai-based DeBund Law Offices， said the order is effectively requiring approvals from the ministry. The new rule is primarily aimed at combating online fraud but it will impact on all apps in China, he said. Rich Bishop, co-founder of app publishing firm AppInChina, said the new rule is also likely to affect foreign-based developers who have been able to publish their apps easily through Apple's App Store without showing any documentation to the Chinese government. Bishop said that in order to comply with the new rules, app developers now must either have a company in China or work with a local publisher. Apple did not immediately reply to a request for comment. The iPhone maker pulled over a hundred artificial intelligence (AI) apps from its App Store last week to comply with regulations after China introduced a new licencing regime for generative AI apps for the country. The ministry's notice also said entities "engaged in internet information services through apps in such fields as news, publishing, education, film and television and religion should also submit relevant documents." The requirement could affect the availability of popular social media apps such as X, Facebook and Instagram. Use of such apps is not allowed in China, but they can be still downloaded from app stores, enabling Chinese to use them when travelling overseas. China already requires mobile games to obtain licences before they launch in the country and it had purged tens of thousands of unlicensed games from various app stores in 2020. Tencent's WeChat, China's most popular online social platform, said on Wednesday that mini apps, apps that can be opened within WeChat, must also follow the new rules. The company said that new apps must complete the filing before launch starting in September while existing mini apps have until the end of March. You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here. WATCH WION LIVE HERE

China to make it compulsory for all apps to share business details in new oversight push

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