<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-iran-tensions-ratchet-up-further-despite-un-efforts-252293">Iran and the United States </a>were close to establishing dialogue at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly, but Washington disrupted the process, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-uses-advanced-centrifuges-in-new-nuclear-deal-breach-iaea-252257">Iranian government</a> spokesman Ali Rabiei said Monday.

According to Rabiei, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani during a meeting with European sides to the nuclear deal, clearly said that Tehran is ready for "5 + 1" format talks, which, in addition to Russia, China, France, Germany and the UK, includes the US. However, the condition for this is the lifting of sanctions against Iran.

"However, Trump was not ready to lift sanctions from Iran... First, the United States is not serious enough about the talks. Second, Trump wanted to use sanctions against the people of Iran as a tool during the negotiations," Rabiei told reporters, saying Washington's approach was unacceptable.

"We were close to diplomacy and a final resolution [of the talks' problem], but the US government prevented this from happening. The responsibility for the failure to form the possibility of a dialogue in New York lies directly with the United States," he said.

Iran and the United States were close to establishing dialogue at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly, but Washington disrupted the process, Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei said Monday.

Iran and the United States were close to establishing dialogue at the 74th session of the UN General Assembly, but Washington disrupted the process, Iranian government spokesman Ali Rabiei said Monday. According to Rabiei, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani during a meeting with European sides to the nuclear deal, clearly said that Tehran is ready for "5 + 1" format talks, which, in addition to Russia, China, France, Germany and the UK, includes the US. However, the condition for this is the lifting of sanctions against Iran. "However, Trump was not ready to lift sanctions from Iran... First, the United States is not serious enough about the talks. Second, Trump wanted to use sanctions against the people of Iran as a tool during the negotiations," Rabiei told reporters, saying Washington's approach was unacceptable. "We were close to diplomacy and a final resolution [of the talks' problem], but the US government prevented this from happening. The responsibility for the failure to form the possibility of a dialogue in New York lies directly with the United States," he said.

We were close to dialogue with US but Trump govt disrupted it: Iran

Thousands rallied across Indonesia Monday in fresh demonstrations sparked by a raft of divisive legal reforms, including <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-president-delays-law-criminalising-sex-outside-of-marriage-250820">banning pre-marital sex </a>and weakening the anti-graft agency.

At least two students have died and hundreds more were injured as unrest swept across the Southeast Asian archipelago, just weeks before President Joko Widodo kicks off a second term as head of the world's third-biggest democracy.

In the capital Jakarta, some 26,000 police and soldiers were deployed while large crowds -- including placard-carrying students and factory workers -- chanted for change near parliament, which was barricaded with barbed wire.

The demonstrations have been fuelled by a proposed bill that includes dozens of legal changes -- from criminalising pre-marital sex and restricting contraceptive sales, to making it illegal to insult the president and toughening the Muslim-majority country's blasphemy law.

The protests are among the biggest student rallies since mass street demonstrations in 1998 toppled the Suharto dictatorship.

Passage of the reforms has now been delayed, while Widodo has said he would consider revising a separate bill that critics fear would dilute the powers of Indonesia's corruption-fighting agency, known as the KPK.

"Why is this law being revised?" said Lukmanul Hakim Ahbr, a 24-year-old Indonesian who said he returned from his studies in neighbouring Malaysia to join the protests.

"We students... reject any revision that will weaken the KPK," he added.

Some held banners that read: "Cancel regulations that threaten people's rights and the environment."

Protesters have also demanded troops be pulled from Indonesia's restive Papua region, where fresh violence killed more than 30 people this month.

They are also demanding a probe on the deaths of two university students on Sulawesi island last week, including one who was shot during the anti-government protests. The police have denied responsibility.

On Monday, scuffles broke out between authorities and some 2,000 university students on Lombok, an island next to Bali where hundreds also rallied.

More than a thousand demonstrators gathered in the city of Bandung on Java island.

Ahead of Tuesday's inauguration of MPs, Indonesia's chief security minister Wiranto -- who goes by one name -- warned that any bloodshed would not be tolerated.

"I'm reminding protesters not to engage in violence or disrupt the inauguration of new lawmakers," the minister told a press briefing.

Officials have portrayed the protests as being hijacked by agitators aiming to disrupt government -- and suggested they were similar to May's deadly post-election riots that paralysed Jakarta.

Updating Indonesia's criminal code, which dates back to the Dutch colonial era, has been debated for decades but there was a renewed push this year backed by conservative Islamic groups.

Thousands rallied across Indonesia Monday in fresh demonstrations sparked by a raft of divisive legal reforms, including banning pre-marital sex and weakening the anti-graft agency.

Thousands rallied across Indonesia Monday in fresh demonstrations sparked by a raft of divisive legal reforms, including banning pre-marital sex and weakening the anti-graft agency. At least two students have died and hundreds more were injured as unrest swept across the Southeast Asian archipelago, just weeks before President Joko Widodo kicks off a second term as head of the world's third-biggest democracy. In the capital Jakarta, some 26,000 police and soldiers were deployed while large crowds -- including placard-carrying students and factory workers -- chanted for change near parliament, which was barricaded with barbed wire. The demonstrations have been fuelled by a proposed bill that includes dozens of legal changes -- from criminalising pre-marital sex and restricting contraceptive sales, to making it illegal to insult the president and toughening the Muslim-majority country's blasphemy law. The protests are among the biggest student rallies since mass street demonstrations in 1998 toppled the Suharto dictatorship. Passage of the reforms has now been delayed, while Widodo has said he would consider revising a separate bill that critics fear would dilute the powers of Indonesia's corruption-fighting agency, known as the KPK. "Why is this law being revised?" said Lukmanul Hakim Ahbr, a 24-year-old Indonesian who said he returned from his studies in neighbouring Malaysia to join the protests. "We students... reject any revision that will weaken the KPK," he added. Some held banners that read: "Cancel regulations that threaten people's rights and the environment." Protesters have also demanded troops be pulled from Indonesia's restive Papua region, where fresh violence killed more than 30 people this month. They are also demanding a probe on the deaths of two university students on Sulawesi island last week, including one who was shot during the anti-government protests. The police have denied responsibility. On Monday, scuffles broke out between authorities and some 2,000 university students on Lombok, an island next to Bali where hundreds also rallied. More than a thousand demonstrators gathered in the city of Bandung on Java island. Ahead of Tuesday's inauguration of MPs, Indonesia's chief security minister Wiranto -- who goes by one name -- warned that any bloodshed would not be tolerated. "I'm reminding protesters not to engage in violence or disrupt the inauguration of new lawmakers," the minister told a press briefing. Officials have portrayed the protests as being hijacked by agitators aiming to disrupt government -- and suggested they were similar to May's deadly post-election riots that paralysed Jakarta. Updating Indonesia's criminal code, which dates back to the Dutch colonial era, has been debated for decades but there was a renewed push this year backed by conservative Islamic groups.

Thousands rally across Indonesia in fresh legal-reform protests

Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview.

Azarov did not specify to which Ukrainian laws he was referring.

Hunter Biden`s role in the company, Burisma Holdings Limited, is in focus after the White House published a memo showing US President Donald Trump asked his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a July phone call to get prosecutors to look into his activities. Zelenskiy agreed.

"It`s a fact (his directorship and fees) and not made up. It should be investigated so that the `i`s can be dotted and the `t`s crossed," Azarov told Reuters.

A spokesperson for Joe Biden`s campaign declined to comment on Azarov`s investigation call and none of Hunter Biden`s critics have provided any evidence that he broke Ukrainian law.

Ukraine`s National Anti-Corruption Bureau said on Friday it was investigating activity at Burisma between 2010-2012, but that it was not looking into changes to its board in 2014, when Hunter Biden joined.

Democrats in the US House of Representatives are pursuing an impeachment inquiry against Trump, a Republican, after a whistleblower complained about his call with Zelenskiy. Lawmakers are looking into whether Trump`s actions jeopardised national security and the integrity of US elections, saying he appeared to be soliciting a political favour from a foreign leader to get re-elected.

Azarov lives in Moscow, but says he remains well-connected with parts of Ukraine`s political establishment and would like to return one day. He did not provide further details.

Hunter Biden was a director on Burisma`s board from 2014 until at least 2018, according to documents filed by the company in Cyprus, where it is registered.

Azarov, who was prime minister from 2010-2014, is himself wanted by Ukrainian authorities for alleged abuse of power. An Interpol red notice issued in 2015 at the request of Ukrainian authorities said he was wanted on accusations of charges including embezzlement and misappropriation.

Azarov denies any wrongdoing and Reuters cannot determine whether there is any active investigation on him.

Azarov said he was not aware of any evidence suggesting wrongdoing on Hunter Biden`s part, but said it was in the Ukrainian public interest to ascertain the legality of his activities.

In particular, he said it was important to investigate what Biden had done for Burisma to justify his fee.

The younger Biden has said he consulted for Burisma, but critics have suggested he was not doing actual work in return for his compensation, an allegation he denies.

"I think it`s essential (he`s investigated)," Azarov told Reuters in Moscow, where Azarov fled after street protests toppled Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovich in 2014.

"If, using his knowledge, he played an active role then there`s nothing scandalous about it," Azarov said. "But if he was simply on the books and getting money, then that could be seen as a violation of the law."

Burisma was not available for comment on Saturday night.

Ukrainian prosecutors have said they are not investigating Hunter Biden, but are looking into the legality of Burisma`s activities before Biden joined its board.

Azarov said he thought it was "absolute nonsense", but that he believed allegations from Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others that Joe Biden had got Ukraine`s prosecutor general fired to protect his son Hunter must also be investigated.

The former US vice president has denied using his influence to get Ukraine`s prosecutor general, Viktor Shokin, fired in 2016 to prevent him investigating his son`s involvement and has said he and his son have done nothing wrong.

Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview.

Ukraine must investigate the activities of US presidential candidate Joe Biden`s son to establish whether his role in a Ukrainian gas company complied with the country`s laws, Mykola Azarov, Ukraine`s former prime minister, said in an interview. Azarov did not specify to which Ukrainian laws he was referring. Hunter Biden`s role in the company, Burisma Holdings Limited, is in focus after the White House published a memo showing US President Donald Trump asked his Ukrainian counterpart, Volodymyr Zelenskiy, in a July phone call to get prosecutors to look into his activities. Zelenskiy agreed. "It`s a fact (his directorship and fees) and not made up. It should be investigated so that the `i`s can be dotted and the `t`s crossed," Azarov told Reuters. A spokesperson for Joe Biden`s campaign declined to comment on Azarov`s investigation call and none of Hunter Biden`s critics have provided any evidence that he broke Ukrainian law. Ukraine`s National Anti-Corruption Bureau said on Friday it was investigating activity at Burisma between 2010-2012, but that it was not looking into changes to its board in 2014, when Hunter Biden joined. Democrats in the US House of Representatives are pursuing an impeachment inquiry against Trump, a Republican, after a whistleblower complained about his call with Zelenskiy. Lawmakers are looking into whether Trump`s actions jeopardised national security and the integrity of US elections, saying he appeared to be soliciting a political favour from a foreign leader to get re-elected. Azarov lives in Moscow, but says he remains well-connected with parts of Ukraine`s political establishment and would like to return one day. He did not provide further details. Hunter Biden was a director on Burisma`s board from 2014 until at least 2018, according to documents filed by the company in Cyprus, where it is registered. Azarov, who was prime minister from 2010-2014, is himself wanted by Ukrainian authorities for alleged abuse of power. An Interpol red notice issued in 2015 at the request of Ukrainian authorities said he was wanted on accusations of charges including embezzlement and misappropriation. Azarov denies any wrongdoing and Reuters cannot determine whether there is any active investigation on him. Azarov said he was not aware of any evidence suggesting wrongdoing on Hunter Biden`s part, but said it was in the Ukrainian public interest to ascertain the legality of his activities. In particular, he said it was important to investigate what Biden had done for Burisma to justify his fee. The younger Biden has said he consulted for Burisma, but critics have suggested he was not doing actual work in return for his compensation, an allegation he denies. "I think it`s essential (he`s investigated)," Azarov told Reuters in Moscow, where Azarov fled after street protests toppled Russia-friendly President Viktor Yanukovich in 2014. "If, using his knowledge, he played an active role then there`s nothing scandalous about it," Azarov said. "But if he was simply on the books and getting money, then that could be seen as a violation of the law." Burisma was not available for comment on Saturday night. Ukrainian prosecutors have said they are not investigating Hunter Biden, but are looking into the legality of Burisma`s activities before Biden joined its board. Azarov said he thought it was "absolute nonsense", but that he believed allegations from Trump lawyer Rudy Giuliani and others that Joe Biden had got Ukraine`s prosecutor general fired to protect his son Hunter must also be investigated. The former US vice president has denied using his influence to get Ukraine`s prosecutor general, Viktor Shokin, fired in 2016 to prevent him investigating his son`s involvement and has said he and his son have done nothing wrong.

Ukraine must investigate Joe Biden's son: Ex-Ukrainian PM

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister. During the visit, EAM will also work together on Indo-Pacific and resolve trade issues.&nbsp;

He already met Pompeo as part of the Quad Foreign Minister meet in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. Speaking on the meet, a senior state department official said, "They discussed how increased engagement in the region by Quad members individually and together contribute to improving maritime security, economic growth and development, and good governance."

Trade remains one of the main focus with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his American counterpart in New York last week.

India's consul general to New York Sandeep Chakravorty responding to WION's question on any India-US trade deal said, "People are working on it, the trajectory is very positive. We have bridged deficit with US through energy, defence. The announcement will come when it comes"

Meanwhile, PM Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, Representative of Hawaii and US Presidential candidate in New York just before leaving for New Delhi.

Speaking to DD News, Gabbard said, "It is really important that the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy continue to remain focused on strengthening our partnership. We have many shared interest from economy to trade to security to counter-terrorism to climate change."

On terror, she said," I think, counter-terrorism and getting rid of the threat coming from terrorism like Al Qaeda and ISIS is certainly in the interest of US and India"

EAM Jaishankar will return to Delhi on October 4.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister.

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar began his bilateral visit to Washington DC on Saturday where he is set to meet US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. The visit which comes in the backdrop of PM Modi's week-long UNGA meet is expected to focus on continuing the momentum generated by the prime minister. During the visit, EAM will also work together on Indo-Pacific and resolve trade issues. He already met Pompeo as part of the Quad Foreign Minister meet in New York on the sidelines of United Nations General Assembly. Speaking on the meet, a senior state department official said, "They discussed how increased engagement in the region by Quad members individually and together contribute to improving maritime security, economic growth and development, and good governance." Trade remains one of the main focus with Indian trade minister Piyush Goyal meeting his American counterpart in New York last week. India's consul general to New York Sandeep Chakravorty responding to WION's question on any India-US trade deal said, "People are working on it, the trajectory is very positive. We have bridged deficit with US through energy, defence. The announcement will come when it comes" Meanwhile, PM Modi met Tulsi Gabbard, Representative of Hawaii and US Presidential candidate in New York just before leaving for New Delhi. Speaking to DD News, Gabbard said, "It is really important that the world's oldest democracy and the world's largest democracy continue to remain focused on strengthening our partnership. We have many shared interest from economy to trade to security to counter-terrorism to climate change." On terror, she said," I think, counter-terrorism and getting rid of the threat coming from terrorism like Al Qaeda and ISIS is certainly in the interest of US and India" EAM Jaishankar will return to Delhi on October 4.

EAM Jaishankar begins his Washington visit, will meet Mike Pompeo

A British-flagged tanker that was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-seized-british-flagged-tanker-free-to-leave-251454">detained by Iran</a> for 10 weeks, docked in Dubai on Saturday, after a standoff that has stoked tensions along a vital global shipping route for oil.

The Stena Impero, which sailed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tanker-released-by-iran-reaches-international-waters-swedish-owner-252426">out of Iranian waters</a> on Friday, was seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on July 19, shortly after British forces detained an Iranian tanker off the territory of Gibraltar. The Iranian ship was released in August.

Erik Hanell, the chief executive of Sweden's Stena Bulk, which owns the ship, told Reuters the crew would receive medical checks and would be de-briefed in Dubai, which lies across the Gulf from Iran, before travelling home to their families. Seven of the 23 crew were freed earlier this month.

The seizure of the vessel, which the Iranian authorities said was for marine violations, followed attacks on other merchant tankers in Gulf waters in May and June. The United States blamed those attacks on Iran, which Tehran denied.

Relations between Iran and the United States and its allies have deteriorated since Washington withdrew last year from a global agreement to rein in Tehran's nuclear work and imposed sanctions aimed at shutting down Iranian oil exports.

A British-flagged tanker that was detained by Iran for 10 weeks, docked in Dubai on Saturday, after a standoff that has stoked tensions along a vital global shipping route for oil.

A British-flagged tanker that was detained by Iran for 10 weeks, docked in Dubai on Saturday, after a standoff that has stoked tensions along a vital global shipping route for oil. The Stena Impero, which sailed out of Iranian waters on Friday, was seized by Iran's Revolutionary Guards on July 19, shortly after British forces detained an Iranian tanker off the territory of Gibraltar. The Iranian ship was released in August. Erik Hanell, the chief executive of Sweden's Stena Bulk, which owns the ship, told Reuters the crew would receive medical checks and would be de-briefed in Dubai, which lies across the Gulf from Iran, before travelling home to their families. Seven of the 23 crew were freed earlier this month. The seizure of the vessel, which the Iranian authorities said was for marine violations, followed attacks on other merchant tankers in Gulf waters in May and June. The United States blamed those attacks on Iran, which Tehran denied. Relations between Iran and the United States and its allies have deteriorated since Washington withdrew last year from a global agreement to rein in Tehran's nuclear work and imposed sanctions aimed at shutting down Iranian oil exports.

British tanker docks in Dubai after detention by Iran

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that rocked Indonesia's remote Maluku islands rose to 30 on Sunday, including several toddlers, the disaster agency said.

On Thursday, terrified residents ran into the streets as buildings fell in around them when the 6.5-magnitude tremor struck, sparking landslides that buried at least one of the victims.

Among the confirmed dead were three young children, with many people killed by falling debris in and around quake-struck Ambon city.

The region's governor has declared a state of emergency until October 9, the agency said.

"As of Sunday morning, 30 people died and 156 were injured," said national disaster mitigation agency spokesman Agus Wibowo.

On Friday, the agency had revised down the official death toll of 23 to 19 after officials realised some of the deceased has been double-counted.

At least 25,000 people had to flee because their houses were damaged by the strong jolt, Wibowo said previously.

Hundreds of houses, offices, schools and public facilities were also been damaged in the disaster. Authorities have set up emergency tents and public kitchens for the evacuees in several districts.

The US Geological Survey said the quake struck about 37 kilometres (23 miles) northeast of Ambon in Maluku province at a depth of 29 kilometres.

The Southeast Asian archipelago is one of the most disaster-prone nations on Earth.

It experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide.

Last year, a 7.5-magnitude quake and a subsequent tsunami in Palu on Sulawesi island left more than 4,300 people dead or missing.

In 2004, a devastating 9.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that killed 220,000 throughout the region, including around 170,000 in Indonesia.

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that rocked Indonesia's remote Maluku islands rose to 30 on Sunday, including several toddlers, the disaster agency said.

The death toll from a powerful earthquake that rocked Indonesia's remote Maluku islands rose to 30 on Sunday, including several toddlers, the disaster agency said. On Thursday, terrified residents ran into the streets as buildings fell in around them when the 6.5-magnitude tremor struck, sparking landslides that buried at least one of the victims. Among the confirmed dead were three young children, with many people killed by falling debris in and around quake-struck Ambon city. The region's governor has declared a state of emergency until October 9, the agency said. "As of Sunday morning, 30 people died and 156 were injured," said national disaster mitigation agency spokesman Agus Wibowo. On Friday, the agency had revised down the official death toll of 23 to 19 after officials realised some of the deceased has been double-counted. At least 25,000 people had to flee because their houses were damaged by the strong jolt, Wibowo said previously. Hundreds of houses, offices, schools and public facilities were also been damaged in the disaster. Authorities have set up emergency tents and public kitchens for the evacuees in several districts. The US Geological Survey said the quake struck about 37 kilometres (23 miles) northeast of Ambon in Maluku province at a depth of 29 kilometres. The Southeast Asian archipelago is one of the most disaster-prone nations on Earth. It experiences frequent seismic and volcanic activity due to its position on the Pacific "Ring of Fire", where tectonic plates collide. Last year, a 7.5-magnitude quake and a subsequent tsunami in Palu on Sulawesi island left more than 4,300 people dead or missing. In 2004, a devastating 9.1-magnitude earthquake struck off the coast of Sumatra and triggered a tsunami that killed 220,000 throughout the region, including around 170,000 in Indonesia.

Indonesia quake death toll rises to 30: Government

China's tightly choreographed 70th birthday bash next week risks being upstaged by pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, which offer a starkly different take on the strength and power of the Communist Party being feted in Beijing.

China's tightly choreographed 70th birthday bash next week risks being upstaged by pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong, which offer a starkly different take on the strength and power of the Communist Party being feted in Beijing. As President Xi Jinping gets ready to preside over a huge military parade and gala event on Tuesday, the former British colony is in tumult over the erosion of its special freedoms by Beijing. Hong Kong has been rocked by the worst political unrest since its handover to China in 1997, with police firing tear gas and rubber bullets to disperse increasingly violent protesters. The city's summer of discontent -- first triggered by an extradition bill to the mainland that has since been shelved -- has morphed into a call for free elections and less intervention from Beijing. With tanks and military aircraft to parade in Beijing on October 1, Hong Kong protest organisers have promised their own major rallies. "It's safe to say that the Hong Kong protests have already wrecked the (Communist) Party's party even before it's begun," said author and activist Kong Tsung-gan. Under the policy of "one country, two systems", China has offered tiny Hong Kong certain liberties denied to citizens on the mainland -– including freedom of expression, unfettered access to the internet and an independent judiciary. But the arrangement is due to expire in 2047. The financial hub has seen waves of civil disobedience over the last decade, particularly the 2014 Umbrella movement, when demonstrators occupied major intersections and government buildings demanding universal suffrage. These protests have undermined the party's closely-crafted narrative that the masses would settle for prosperity without political rights, Kong said. China has deployed elements of the People's Armed Police in Shenzhen, the city bordering Hong Kong, fuelling speculation that Beijing might be prepared to intervene if necessary. By rallying on October 1, Hong Kong protesters will attempt to "underscore the difference between dictatorial China and free Hong Kong", said Willy Lam, a professor at Chinese University of Hong Kong. 'Hong Kong burning' Hong Kong police in the past have denied permission to hold some protests citing public safety concerns, and it isn't clear whether organisers have the green light for events on October 1. "Crowds have still turned up even when protests have been cancelled due to lack of permissions," said Michael Chugani, a broadcaster and political commentator in Hong Kong. "Images flashed around the world would not be of China partying but of Hong Kong burning, tarnishing the carefully crafted image of stability and prosperity that China's propaganda machinery wants to project." The city government has cancelled the national day fireworks at Hong Kong's glittering waterfront near Victoria Harbour. "It would embarrass Beijing even more if there is a repetition of what happened on July 1, when Hong Kong marked the 22nd anniversary of reunification," Chugani said. In July, Hong Kong officials had to watch the flag-raising ceremony on large screens locked up inside a convention centre, while hundreds of thousands marched in the streets and a group of radical protesters stormed the city's parliament. The flag-raising ceremony on October 1 will also be held indoors. 'Lost hope' China has portrayed the protesters as rioters backed by "external forces" and lashed out at criticism from the United States and Britain. But attempts to insulate mainland audiences from being "infected by the virulent ideas" of freedom coming from Hong Kong hasn't been totally successful, said Jean-Pierre Cabestan, a political science professor at Hong Kong Baptist University. One 25-year-old woman from Beijing, who travelled to Hong Kong to participate in a human chain protest in late August, was among the mainland Chinese to have expressed support for the city's pro-democracy movement. "I understand why they do this... They have lost hope in the system, they don't trust the government," she told AFP, requesting anonymity in fear of reprisal. When asked about what she wanted for China as it marks its 70th anniversary, she said: "I hope we can have the freedom not to be afraid."

Hong Kong crisis threatens to spoil China's 70th party

Hong Kong protesters are to join a global "anti-totalitarianism rally" on Sunday, following another <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-fire-water-cannon-after-protesters-hurl-molotovs-252611">night of violent clashes</a> with police after weeks of pro-democracy unrest in the Chinese-ruled city.

Police fired tear gas and water cannon on Saturday night to disperse protesters who threw petrol bombs and rocks, broke government office windows and blocked a key road near the local headquarters of China's People's Liberation Army.

A series of protests for and against the city's Communist Party rulers in Beijing is planned ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic on Tuesday, including at the consulate of former colonial power Britain.

Thousands, young and old, gathered peacefully on Saturday at a harbourside park to mark the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" pro-democracy movement which gridlocked streets for 79 days in 2014.

Then the violence began, following a pattern of the last few weeks. 
Anti-government protesters have attacked the legislature, Beijing's main Liaison Office, occupied the airport, thrown petrol bombs at police, vandalised metro stations and set street fires.

Police have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets and occasional live rounds fired into the air.

The protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula guaranteeing freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland.

China dismisses the accusation and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of fanning anti-China sentiment.

Protests were sparked in June by planned legislation, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement.

 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong protesters are to join a global "anti-totalitarianism rally" on Sunday, following another night of violent clashes with police after weeks of pro-democracy unrest in the Chinese-ruled city.

Hong Kong protesters are to join a global "anti-totalitarianism rally" on Sunday, following another night of violent clashes with police after weeks of pro-democracy unrest in the Chinese-ruled city. Police fired tear gas and water cannon on Saturday night to disperse protesters who threw petrol bombs and rocks, broke government office windows and blocked a key road near the local headquarters of China's People's Liberation Army. A series of protests for and against the city's Communist Party rulers in Beijing is planned ahead of the 70th anniversary of the People's Republic on Tuesday, including at the consulate of former colonial power Britain. Thousands, young and old, gathered peacefully on Saturday at a harbourside park to mark the fifth anniversary of the "Umbrella" pro-democracy movement which gridlocked streets for 79 days in 2014. Then the violence began, following a pattern of the last few weeks. Anti-government protesters have attacked the legislature, Beijing's main Liaison Office, occupied the airport, thrown petrol bombs at police, vandalised metro stations and set street fires. Police have responded with tear gas, water cannon, rubber bullets and occasional live rounds fired into the air. The protesters are angry about what they see as creeping Chinese interference in Hong Kong, which returned to China in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula guaranteeing freedoms that are not enjoyed on the mainland. China dismisses the accusation and has accused foreign governments, including the United States and Britain, of fanning anti-China sentiment. Protests were sparked in June by planned legislation, since withdrawn, that would have allowed the extradition of suspected criminals to mainland China. But they have since expanded into a broader pro-democracy movement.

Hong Kong protesters to rally after another night of violence

Austrians vote Sunday in snap elections, in which the conservatives look set to triumph but will have difficulties finding a partner to govern after a corruption scandal brought down their last coalition with the far-right.

The People's Party (OeVP) led by 33-year-old Sebastian Kurz is predicted to gain around 33 per cent, up slightly from the last elections two years ago but not enough to form a majority government.

Kurz has "nothing to win, but a lot to lose", according to an editorial in Die Presse daily on Saturday.

"Even with a nice plus on Sunday, it is more difficult for him than in 2017," it said, adding there was no partner that quite suited him anymore.

With 6.4 million people eligible to vote, polling stations open at 7 am &nbsp;(0500 GMT) and close at 5 pm (1500 GMT) when first projections are expected.&nbsp;

Far-right troubles

The parliamentary elections were brought about by the "Ibiza-gate" corruption scandal that engulfed Kurz's far-right coalition partner in May, after just 18 months in government together.

Experts have predicted "whizz-kid" Kurz could once again partner up with the Freedom Party (FPOe) in a re-run of the coalition that has been touted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and other nationalists as a model for all of Europe.

But fresh allegations of wrong-doing have shaken the far-right over the past week.

Prosecutors confirmed Thursday they were investigating Heinz-Christian Strache, who resigned as FPOe leader and vice-chancellor in May because of "Ibiza-gate", over fraudulent party expense claims.

The FPOe's current leader, Norbert Hofer, has said he won't tread "gently" if any wrong-doing is confirmed, leading to worries that supporters of Strache, who led the party for 14 years and remains influential, could stay away from the polls in protest.

Kurz himself has also warned that left-leaning parties could gain more than predicted and then band together to form a coalition without him.

"If there is just a little shift... then there will be a majority against us," Kurz told supporters at a final rally in Vienna on Saturday.

Climate matters&nbsp;

Unlike in 2017, the top voter concern is not immigration -- a welcome topic for Kurz and his former far-right allies -- but the climate.

Tens of thousands of people marched Friday in Vienna and other Austrian cities to demand the government fight climate change.

The protests were part of global demonstrations led by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and the biggest yet in the small Alpine country of 8.8 million inhabitants.

Against this backdrop, Austria's Greens -- who failed to get into parliament in 2017 in shock results -- look set to make the biggest inroads on Sunday.

They are tipped to gain around 13 per cent, up 10 percentage points from two years ago.

It remains to be seen if Kurz, a former law student who has enjoyed a rapid ascent through the ranks in Austrian politics, tries to woo them and another small party, the liberal NEOs, after Sunday to form a partnership.

Unsurprisingly given the reason the election was called, corruption in public life and party financing have also been prominent themes in the campaign, as well as more bread-and-butter issues like social care.

Another option for Kurz could be forming a coalition with the Social Democrats (SPOe).

With a predicted historic low of around 22 per cent, the SPOe was neck and neck with the FPOe before the troubles this week as the country's second strongest party.

Since World War II, either OeVP or SPOe have always governed, and for 44 years in total the two ruled together, but it was Kurz who ended their last partnership, leading to the 2017 polls.

Kurz has also floated the idea of ruling in a minority government. But this would potentially continue political uncertainty and could even trigger another election.

Either way, negotiations between parties are expected to take months again. Ultimately, President Alexander Van der Bellen, a former Greens leader, will need to approve any government.

The OeVP-FPOe government imploded in May when two German media outlets published footage filmed secretly on the Spanish resort island of Ibiza, showing Strache appearing to offer public contracts in exchange for campaign help from a fake Russian backer.

Austrians vote Sunday in snap elections, in which the conservatives look set to triumph but will have difficulties finding a partner to govern after a corruption scandal brought down their last coalition with the far-right.

Austrians vote Sunday in snap elections, in which the conservatives look set to triumph but will have difficulties finding a partner to govern after a corruption scandal brought down their last coalition with the far-right. The People's Party (OeVP) led by 33-year-old Sebastian Kurz is predicted to gain around 33 per cent, up slightly from the last elections two years ago but not enough to form a majority government. Kurz has "nothing to win, but a lot to lose", according to an editorial in Die Presse daily on Saturday. "Even with a nice plus on Sunday, it is more difficult for him than in 2017," it said, adding there was no partner that quite suited him anymore. With 6.4 million people eligible to vote, polling stations open at 7 am (0500 GMT) and close at 5 pm (1500 GMT) when first projections are expected. Far-right troubles The parliamentary elections were brought about by the "Ibiza-gate" corruption scandal that engulfed Kurz's far-right coalition partner in May, after just 18 months in government together. Experts have predicted "whizz-kid" Kurz could once again partner up with the Freedom Party (FPOe) in a re-run of the coalition that has been touted by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and other nationalists as a model for all of Europe. But fresh allegations of wrong-doing have shaken the far-right over the past week. Prosecutors confirmed Thursday they were investigating Heinz-Christian Strache, who resigned as FPOe leader and vice-chancellor in May because of "Ibiza-gate", over fraudulent party expense claims. The FPOe's current leader, Norbert Hofer, has said he won't tread "gently" if any wrong-doing is confirmed, leading to worries that supporters of Strache, who led the party for 14 years and remains influential, could stay away from the polls in protest. Kurz himself has also warned that left-leaning parties could gain more than predicted and then band together to form a coalition without him. "If there is just a little shift... then there will be a majority against us," Kurz told supporters at a final rally in Vienna on Saturday. Climate matters Unlike in 2017, the top voter concern is not immigration -- a welcome topic for Kurz and his former far-right allies -- but the climate. Tens of thousands of people marched Friday in Vienna and other Austrian cities to demand the government fight climate change. The protests were part of global demonstrations led by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg and the biggest yet in the small Alpine country of 8.8 million inhabitants. Against this backdrop, Austria's Greens -- who failed to get into parliament in 2017 in shock results -- look set to make the biggest inroads on Sunday. They are tipped to gain around 13 per cent, up 10 percentage points from two years ago. It remains to be seen if Kurz, a former law student who has enjoyed a rapid ascent through the ranks in Austrian politics, tries to woo them and another small party, the liberal NEOs, after Sunday to form a partnership. Unsurprisingly given the reason the election was called, corruption in public life and party financing have also been prominent themes in the campaign, as well as more bread-and-butter issues like social care. Another option for Kurz could be forming a coalition with the Social Democrats (SPOe). With a predicted historic low of around 22 per cent, the SPOe was neck and neck with the FPOe before the troubles this week as the country's second strongest party. Since World War II, either OeVP or SPOe have always governed, and for 44 years in total the two ruled together, but it was Kurz who ended their last partnership, leading to the 2017 polls. Kurz has also floated the idea of ruling in a minority government. But this would potentially continue political uncertainty and could even trigger another election. Either way, negotiations between parties are expected to take months again. Ultimately, President Alexander Van der Bellen, a former Greens leader, will need to approve any government. The OeVP-FPOe government imploded in May when two German media outlets published footage filmed secretly on the Spanish resort island of Ibiza, showing Strache appearing to offer public contracts in exchange for campaign help from a fake Russian backer.

Austrians vote in snap election with conservatives in lead

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities.

The Houthis' military spokesman said in a statement that three "enemy military brigades had fallen" in the attack, which he said was launched 72 hours ago and supported by the group's drone, missile and air defence units.

Houthi-run Al Masirah TV quoted the spokesman as saying the Iran-aligned movement had captured "thousands" of enemy troops, including many officers and soldiers of the Saudi army, as well as hundreds of armoured vehicles.

The spokesman for a Saudi-led military coalition that has been battling the Houthi group for over four years in Yemen did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Reuters could not independently verify the claim.

Yemeni government troops, supported by coalition air strikes, have in recent months been fighting Houthi forces in the Kataf region of the northern Saada province near the Saudi border. Local sources have said the Houthis had captured scores of Yemeni forces in the battles.

The violence could hamper United Nations' efforts to ease tensions and pave the way for talks to end the war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions to the brink of famine in the long-impoverished Arabian Peninsula nation.

The Sunni Muslim coalition, which receives arms and intelligence from Western countries, intervened in Yemen in March 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital Sanaa in 2014.

A U.N.-brokered prisoner swap deal agreed between the Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-backed government last December involving some 7,000 detainees on each side has yet to happen.

"Operation 'Victory from God' is the largest military one since the brutal aggression began. The enemy suffered heavy losses ... and wide swathes of territory were liberated in only a few days," Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul-Salam tweeted.

The Houthis, who had recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, have claimed responsibility for the largest-ever attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14.

Riyadh dismissed the claim, saying the assault did not come from Yemen and instead blamed its regional foe Shi'ite Muslim Iran. Tehran denies the charge.

The Houthis said on September 20 they would halt missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia if the alliance stopped its operations. The coalition has yet to respond to the proposal.

The conflict is widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Houthis, who control Sanaa and most big urban centres, deny being puppets of Tehran and say they are fighting a corrupt system.

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities.

Yemen's Houthi movement said on Saturday it had carried out a major attack near the border with the southern Saudi region of Najran and captured many troops and vehicles, but there was no immediate confirmation from Saudi Arabian authorities. The Houthis' military spokesman said in a statement that three "enemy military brigades had fallen" in the attack, which he said was launched 72 hours ago and supported by the group's drone, missile and air defence units. Houthi-run Al Masirah TV quoted the spokesman as saying the Iran-aligned movement had captured "thousands" of enemy troops, including many officers and soldiers of the Saudi army, as well as hundreds of armoured vehicles. The spokesman for a Saudi-led military coalition that has been battling the Houthi group for over four years in Yemen did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment. Reuters could not independently verify the claim. Yemeni government troops, supported by coalition air strikes, have in recent months been fighting Houthi forces in the Kataf region of the northern Saada province near the Saudi border. Local sources have said the Houthis had captured scores of Yemeni forces in the battles. The violence could hamper United Nations' efforts to ease tensions and pave the way for talks to end the war that has killed tens of thousands and pushed millions to the brink of famine in the long-impoverished Arabian Peninsula nation. The Sunni Muslim coalition, which receives arms and intelligence from Western countries, intervened in Yemen in March 2015 after the Houthis ousted the internationally recognised government from power in the capital Sanaa in 2014. A U.N.-brokered prisoner swap deal agreed between the Houthis and Yemen's Saudi-backed government last December involving some 7,000 detainees on each side has yet to happen. "Operation 'Victory from God' is the largest military one since the brutal aggression began. The enemy suffered heavy losses ... and wide swathes of territory were liberated in only a few days," Houthi spokesman Mohammed Abdul-Salam tweeted. The Houthis, who had recently stepped up missile and drone attacks on Saudi cities, have claimed responsibility for the largest-ever attack on Saudi oil facilities on September 14. Riyadh dismissed the claim, saying the assault did not come from Yemen and instead blamed its regional foe Shi'ite Muslim Iran. Tehran denies the charge. The Houthis said on September 20 they would halt missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia if the alliance stopped its operations. The coalition has yet to respond to the proposal. The conflict is widely seen as a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and Iran. The Houthis, who control Sanaa and most big urban centres, deny being puppets of Tehran and say they are fighting a corrupt system.

Attacked Saudi border frontline, captured troops: Houthis

A US federal judge has dealt a new blow to President Donald Trump's anti-immigration efforts, blocking a measure meant to relax the criteria for deporting undocumented migrants.

The ruling concerns a policy known as expedited removal under which migrants previously found within 100 miles (160 kilometers) of the border within 14 days of their arrival were deported without appearing before an immigration judge.

In July, the Department of Homeland Security implemented a policy to expand the measure to include immigrants found within two years of arrival and located anywhere in the United States.

The decision issued late Friday evening by US District Court Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson prohibits the DHS from applying the expanded criteria.

The move, she said, would leave those affected by the expansion "irreparably harmed."

"The Trump administration intended to deport as many noncitizens as possible using a process that is profoundly flawed and puts noncitizens, including asylum-seekers, at serious risk of wrongful deportation," said Trina Realmuto, directing attorney of the American Immigration Council (AIC) which was one of the plaintiffs in the case.

According to the AIC, some undocumented migrants potentially exempt from deportation due to security risks in their country of origin would be denied due process under the expansion.

On Saturday, the White House issued a statement calling the struck-down expansion a tool that is "vital to addressing the many aliens in the United States who have no right to remain here."

"Once again, a single district judge has suspended application of Federal law nationwide—removing whole classes of illegal aliens from legal accountability," White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said.

A spokesperson for the US Department of Justice said the decision "squarely conflicts" with authority granted to the Department of Homeland Security to act quickly to "remove from the country aliens who have no right to be here."

Also Friday, a federal judge in California rejected an attempt by the administration to reverse an agreement preventing the indefinite detention of undocumented children.

The United States is facing a migration crisis on its southern border with Mexico, where tens of thousands of people from Central America cross into the United States every month. 
&nbsp;

A US federal judge has dealt a new blow to President Donald Trump's anti-immigration efforts, blocking a measure meant to relax the criteria for deporting undocumented migrants.

A US federal judge has dealt a new blow to President Donald Trump's anti-immigration efforts, blocking a measure meant to relax the criteria for deporting undocumented migrants. The ruling concerns a policy known as expedited removal under which migrants previously found within 100 miles (160 kilometers) of the border within 14 days of their arrival were deported without appearing before an immigration judge. In July, the Department of Homeland Security implemented a policy to expand the measure to include immigrants found within two years of arrival and located anywhere in the United States. The decision issued late Friday evening by US District Court Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson prohibits the DHS from applying the expanded criteria. The move, she said, would leave those affected by the expansion "irreparably harmed." "The Trump administration intended to deport as many noncitizens as possible using a process that is profoundly flawed and puts noncitizens, including asylum-seekers, at serious risk of wrongful deportation," said Trina Realmuto, directing attorney of the American Immigration Council (AIC) which was one of the plaintiffs in the case. According to the AIC, some undocumented migrants potentially exempt from deportation due to security risks in their country of origin would be denied due process under the expansion. On Saturday, the White House issued a statement calling the struck-down expansion a tool that is "vital to addressing the many aliens in the United States who have no right to remain here." "Once again, a single district judge has suspended application of Federal law nationwide—removing whole classes of illegal aliens from legal accountability," White House Press Secretary Stephanie Grisham said. A spokesperson for the US Department of Justice said the decision "squarely conflicts" with authority granted to the Department of Homeland Security to act quickly to "remove from the country aliens who have no right to be here." Also Friday, a federal judge in California rejected an attempt by the administration to reverse an agreement preventing the indefinite detention of undocumented children. The United States is facing a migration crisis on its southern border with Mexico, where tens of thousands of people from Central America cross into the United States every month.

US judge rejects Trump policy of expanded deportation

President Donald Trump, the target of an impeachment investigation over alleged abuse of power, warned supporters Saturday that "Our country is at stake like never before."

The video message posted on Twitter underscores the pressure on the White House as Democratic lawmakers charge aggressively into their<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-calls-democratic-impeachment-enquiry-a-joke-252097"> investigation over accusations </a>that Trump tried to arm-twist the Ukrainian president into providing dirt on one of his main 2020 election rivals, Joe Biden.

American rights are being threatened by Democrats, Trump said, stating that they "want to take away your guns, they want to take away your health care, they want to take away your vote, they want to take away your freedom."

"We can never let this happen," he said. "Because our country is at stake like never before. It's all very simple. They're trying to stop me because I'm fighting for you -- and I'll never let that happen."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
They are trying to stop ME, because I am fighting for YOU! <a href="https://t.co/xiw4jtjkNl">pic.twitter.com/xiw4jtjkNl</a>
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1178055467987275776?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 28, 2019</a></blockquote>
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In subsequent tweets, Trump repeated his charges that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-to-launch-trump-impeachment-inquiry-over-ukraine-controversy-251842">impeachment investigation</a> is a "Witch Hunt," and said Democratic lawmaker Adam Schiff, who is leading the impeachment probe, had defamed and libeled him, and should resign from Congress.

Congressional committees carrying out the impeachment inquiry have ordered Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to turn over Ukraine-related documents and conduct interviews starting next week with five State Department officials.

They include former ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, whom Trump reportedly forced out earlier this year for resisting his efforts to pressure Kiev to probe Biden.

President Donald Trump, the target of an impeachment investigation over alleged abuse of power, warned supporters Saturday that "Our country is at stake like never before.

President Donald Trump, the target of an impeachment investigation over alleged abuse of power, warned supporters Saturday that "Our country is at stake like never before." The video message posted on Twitter underscores the pressure on the White House as Democratic lawmakers charge aggressively into their investigation over accusations that Trump tried to arm-twist the Ukrainian president into providing dirt on one of his main 2020 election rivals, Joe Biden. American rights are being threatened by Democrats, Trump said, stating that they "want to take away your guns, they want to take away your health care, they want to take away your vote, they want to take away your freedom." "We can never let this happen," he said. "Because our country is at stake like never before. It's all very simple. They're trying to stop me because I'm fighting for you -- and I'll never let that happen." They are trying to stop ME, because I am fighting for YOU! pic.twitter.com/xiw4jtjkNl — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 28, 2019 × In subsequent tweets, Trump repeated his charges that the impeachment investigation is a "Witch Hunt," and said Democratic lawmaker Adam Schiff, who is leading the impeachment probe, had defamed and libeled him, and should resign from Congress. Congressional committees carrying out the impeachment inquiry have ordered Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to turn over Ukraine-related documents and conduct interviews starting next week with five State Department officials. They include former ambassador to Ukraine Marie Yovanovitch, whom Trump reportedly forced out earlier this year for resisting his efforts to pressure Kiev to probe Biden.

Our country is at stake like never before: Trump to supporters

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Zee News Rajasthan

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