The United States on Wednesday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sanctions-hit-iran-to-cut-zeros-and-rename-plunging-currency-239766">imposed sanctions</a> on Iranian Foreign Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-continue-to-reduce-nuclear-deal-commitments-unless-europe-protects-iran-from-us-sanctions-javad-zarif-239698">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a>, targeting the country's top spokesman and potentially hurting chances of diplomatic talks amid rising tensions between the two countries.

Zarif, a critical figure in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, dismissed the action and said it would not affect him.

US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal last year and ramped up sanctions to put pressure on Iran's economy. The move dismantled part of President Barack Obama's legacy and upset US allies who were a party to the agreement, which was designed to restrict Tehran's pathway to a nuclear bomb in exchange for sanctions relief.

Strains between Washington and Tehran have risen more in recent months after attacks on tankers in the Gulf that the United States blames on Iran and Iran's downing of a US drone that prompted preparations for a US retaliatory airstrike that Trump called off at the last minute.

"Javad Zarif implements the reckless agenda of Iran’s Supreme Leader, and is the regime’s primary spokesperson around the world. The United States is sending a clear message to the Iranian regime that its recent behavior is completely unacceptable," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement.

The sanctions against Zarif would block any property or interests he has in the United States, but the Iranian Foreign Minister said he had none.

"The US` reason for designating me is that I am Iran's 'primary spokesperson around the world'," Zarif said on Twitter. "Is the truth really that painful? It has no effect on me or my family, as I have no property or interests outside of Iran. Thank you for considering me such a huge threat to your agenda."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The US' reason for designating me is that I am Iran's "primary spokesperson around the world" 
Is the truth really that painful? 
It has no effect on me or my family, as I have no property or interests outside of Iran. 
Thank you for considering me such a huge threat to your agenda.
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1156664257020334081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
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Zarif lived in the United States, from the age of 17 as a student of international relations in San Francisco and Denver, and subsequently as a diplomat at the United Nations in New York, where he was Iranian ambassador from 2002 to 2007.

The Trump administration said it would make decisions on whether to grant Zarif travel visas, including for trips to the United Nations, on a case by case basis, holding open the possibility that he might attend the annual UN&nbsp;General Assembly in September.

If Zarif received such a visa, that would allow direct or indirect US&nbsp;contacts with him during that gathering, which brings most of the world`s leaders to New York and has been the venue for previous US-Iranian contacts.

Negotiator

A senior US official reiterated that Trump was open to talks with Iran, but said the administration would want to deal with a key decision-maker, which it did not consider Zarif to be.

Zarif, who has said a so-called B-team including Trump’s national security adviser John Bolton, an ardent Iran hawk, and conservative Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could goad Trump into a conflict with Tehran, said in a later tweet,&nbsp;"We know that calling for dialog &amp; peace is an existential threat to #B_Team."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
We know that calling for dialog &amp; peace is an existential threat to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/B_Team?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#B_Team</a>. 
And since reason for designating me is my words, would "US persons" need OFAC license to "engage" with me by reading my writings or listening to interviews? 
 
cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/stevenmnuchin1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@stevenmnuchin1</a> 
cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/SecPompeo?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SecPompeo</a> 
cc: <a href="https://twitter.com/jack?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jack</a>
— Javad Zarif (@JZarif) <a href="https://twitter.com/JZarif/status/1156707044814204928?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 31, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Senator Chris Murphy, a Democratic member of the Foreign Relations Committee, questioned the administration`s move.

"If our position is really that we want to negotiate with Iran than maybe we shouldn’t sanction their chief negotiator," Murphy posted on Twitter. 
Wendy Sherman, who was the lead US negotiator for the Iran nuclear deal under Obama, echoed that view and said placing sanctions on Zarif "risks dangerous escalation."&nbsp;

She linked the action to what Bolton said was a US decision to renew sanctions waivers for Iranian nuclear programs that allow Russia, China and European countries to continue their civilian nuclear cooperation with Tehran.

"One assumes sanctioning Zarif is the price for those waivers. The internal administration battle of war or diplomacy apparently wages on," said Sherman, who is director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School.

On June 24 Trump targeted Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other top Iranian officials with sanctions.

Mnuchin said then that Zarif would be blacklisted that week, but the designation did not happen quickly. Reuters reported in mid-July that the administration had decided to hold off on sanctions against him for the time being.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday the Trump administration still sought a diplomatic solution but said Zarif`s foreign ministry was advancing the Iranian Supreme Leader`s "destabilizing" policies.

"The only path forward is a comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of its threats. Until then, our campaign of diplomatic isolation and maximum economic pressure will continue," Pompeo said.

Mnuchin said Zarif used social media to spread Iranian "propaganda and disinformation" while the government did not allow its citizens to use such mediums themselves.

The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, targeting the country's top spokesman and potentially hurting chances of diplomatic talks amid rising tensions between the two countries.

The United States on Wednesday imposed sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, targeting the country's top spokesman and potentially hurting chances of diplomatic talks amid rising tensions between the two countries. Zarif, a critical figure in the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, dismissed the action and said it would not affect him. US President Donald Trump pulled the United States out of the deal last year and ramped up sanctions to put pressure on Iran's economy. The move dismantled part of President Barack Obama's legacy and upset US allies who were a party to the agreement, which was designed to restrict Tehran's pathway to a nuclear bomb in exchange for sanctions relief. Strains between Washington and Tehran have risen more in recent months after attacks on tankers in the Gulf that the United States blames on Iran and Iran's downing of a US drone that prompted preparations for a US retaliatory airstrike that Trump called off at the last minute. "Javad Zarif implements the reckless agenda of Iran’s Supreme Leader, and is the regime’s primary spokesperson around the world. The United States is sending a clear message to the Iranian regime that its recent behavior is completely unacceptable," Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said in a statement. The sanctions against Zarif would block any property or interests he has in the United States, but the Iranian Foreign Minister said he had none. "The US` reason for designating me is that I am Iran's 'primary spokesperson around the world'," Zarif said on Twitter. "Is the truth really that painful? It has no effect on me or my family, as I have no property or interests outside of Iran. Thank you for considering me such a huge threat to your agenda." The US' reason for designating me is that I am Iran's "primary spokesperson around the world" Is the truth really that painful? It has no effect on me or my family, as I have no property or interests outside of Iran. Thank you for considering me such a huge threat to your agenda. — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) July 31, 2019 × Zarif lived in the United States, from the age of 17 as a student of international relations in San Francisco and Denver, and subsequently as a diplomat at the United Nations in New York, where he was Iranian ambassador from 2002 to 2007. The Trump administration said it would make decisions on whether to grant Zarif travel visas, including for trips to the United Nations, on a case by case basis, holding open the possibility that he might attend the annual UN General Assembly in September. If Zarif received such a visa, that would allow direct or indirect US contacts with him during that gathering, which brings most of the world`s leaders to New York and has been the venue for previous US-Iranian contacts. Negotiator A senior US official reiterated that Trump was open to talks with Iran, but said the administration would want to deal with a key decision-maker, which it did not consider Zarif to be. Zarif, who has said a so-called B-team including Trump’s national security adviser John Bolton, an ardent Iran hawk, and conservative Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu could goad Trump into a conflict with Tehran, said in a later tweet, "We know that calling for dialog & peace is an existential threat to #B_Team." We know that calling for dialog & peace is an existential threat to #B_Team. And since reason for designating me is my words, would "US persons" need OFAC license to "engage" with me by reading my writings or listening to interviews? cc: @stevenmnuchin1 cc: @SecPompeo cc: @jack — Javad Zarif (@JZarif) July 31, 2019 × Senator Chris Murphy, a Democratic member of the Foreign Relations Committee, questioned the administration`s move. "If our position is really that we want to negotiate with Iran than maybe we shouldn’t sanction their chief negotiator," Murphy posted on Twitter. Wendy Sherman, who was the lead US negotiator for the Iran nuclear deal under Obama, echoed that view and said placing sanctions on Zarif "risks dangerous escalation." She linked the action to what Bolton said was a US decision to renew sanctions waivers for Iranian nuclear programs that allow Russia, China and European countries to continue their civilian nuclear cooperation with Tehran. "One assumes sanctioning Zarif is the price for those waivers. The internal administration battle of war or diplomacy apparently wages on," said Sherman, who is director of the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. On June 24 Trump targeted Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and other top Iranian officials with sanctions. Mnuchin said then that Zarif would be blacklisted that week, but the designation did not happen quickly. Reuters reported in mid-July that the administration had decided to hold off on sanctions against him for the time being. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday the Trump administration still sought a diplomatic solution but said Zarif`s foreign ministry was advancing the Iranian Supreme Leader`s "destabilizing" policies. "The only path forward is a comprehensive deal that addresses the full range of its threats. Until then, our campaign of diplomatic isolation and maximum economic pressure will continue," Pompeo said. Mnuchin said Zarif used social media to spread Iranian "propaganda and disinformation" while the government did not allow its citizens to use such mediums themselves.

US imposes sanctions on Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak.

The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday.

The country capital Dhaka has registered the highest number of deaths in the case.

The viral has so far claimed the lives of fourteen&nbsp;people.

Around 15,369 patients have been diagnosed with the fever since January.&nbsp;Out of this over 9,683&nbsp;cases were registered in the month of July.&nbsp;

As of Tuesday, about 4,400 patients, including many children, were undergoing hospital treatment.&nbsp;

The figures&nbsp;show a sharp increase in the number of cases over the months.&nbsp;

Hospitals are flooded with patients, putting a severe strain on the country's already overwhelmed medical system.

&nbsp;

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak. The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday.

Bangladesh is facing its worst-ever dengue fever outbreak. The mosquito-borne viral infection has spread across the country with 61 out of 64 districts reporting dengue cases by late Tuesday. The country capital Dhaka has registered the highest number of deaths in the case. The viral has so far claimed the lives of fourteen people. Around 15,369 patients have been diagnosed with the fever since January. Out of this over 9,683 cases were registered in the month of July. As of Tuesday, about 4,400 patients, including many children, were undergoing hospital treatment. The figures show a sharp increase in the number of cases over the months. Hospitals are flooded with patients, putting a severe strain on the country's already overwhelmed medical system.

Bangladesh faces worst ever Dengue fever outbreak

The US media on Wednesday cited American officials and announced the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/al-qaidas-post-osama-strategy-humza-bin-ladens-voice-used-to-blunt-islamic-state-239867">death of Osama bin Laden's son Hamza&nbsp;bin Laden</a>.

The fifteenth child of Osama bin Laden's 20 children, Hamza&nbsp;provided a younger voice for the group whose ageing leaders have struggled to "inspire" terrorists around the world galvanised by Islamic State, according to analysts.

Here's taking a look at the life and times of Hamza's father Osama bin Laden.

Born in a prosperous family

Osama bin Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 1957 in a prosperous family.

He was the seventh of the 50 children born to Muhammad bin Laden and the only son born to his mother Alia Ghanem.

After her split with Mohammad Awad bin Laden, Osama's mother took him and lived with her new husband. Osama, therefore, spent most of his childhood with his step-siblings. 
&nbsp; 
He attended the most prestigious school of Jedda, Al Thagher Model School. At 14, he emerged as an outstanding student in his school.

Due to his brilliant performance in studies, Osama was invited to join a small Islamic study group. He attended the Islamic group along with several other boys from imminent Jedda family.

According to reports, it was this&nbsp;place&nbsp;which first sowed the seeds of violent jihad in Osama. During this period Laden grew untrimmed beards and imitated Prophet's dress.

US hailed Osama bin Laden, called him&nbsp;Freedom Fighter

Osama who laid the plot for the deadly 9/11 attack on the World Trade Centre was once referred to as "Freedom Fighter" by the United States in 1989.

The event traces back to the Soviet Union's invasion in Afghanistan. Osama who believed it was his duty as a Muslim to help the country, moved to Afghanistan from Saudi Arabia and joined the Afghan forces in 1979.

He also trained mujahideen, a group of Islamic jihadists here.

After the Soviets withdrew from the country in 1989, Osama returned to Saudi Arabia as a hero and the United States referred to him as "Freedom Fighters".

Stripped off his citizenship

The once-celebrated Osama bin Laden was sent out of his country in 1992.

During the Persian Gulf War, Osama&nbsp;was provoked by the US occupation of Saudi Arabia and entered into conflict with the government charging them of corruption. He also publicly denounced the Saudi government's reliance on American troops. Eventually, he ended up going to an exile in Sudan in 1992.

By 1993, Osama bin Laden had formed a secret group called Al-Qaeda. The group comprising of militant Muslims aimed at taking up jihadist cause across the world.

Over the years Al-Qaeda organised several global attacks. Due to his continuous involvement in extremist jihadist, Saudi Arabia stripped off his citizenship in 1994 and also confiscated his passport. Osama was also disowned by his family.&nbsp;

His war against the US increased over the years. In 1996, he detonated bombs against US-occupied forces in Saudi Arabia. The group continued to organise several attacks against the US in the next few years.&nbsp;

War against humanity

Due to the rising war against humanity, Sudan also exiled him in 1996. Thereafter Osama took refuge in Afghanistan where he received aid and protection from country's militant group Taliban. After his engagement with the Taliban, Osama declared a holy war against the US.

Osama bin Laden led group conducted one of the most deadly attacks on the US on September 11, 2001. The attack claimed the lives of over thousands of civilians.

After the attack, Osama went into hiding for over 10 years. A decade after the attack, the then US President Barack Obama announced on May 2, 2011, about the killing of Osama in Pakistan's Abbottabad.

The US media on Wednesday cited American officials and announced the death of Osama bin Laden's son Hamza bin Laden. The fifteenth child of Osama bin Laden's 20 children, Hamza provided a younger voice for the group whose ageing leaders have struggled to "inspire" terrorists around the world galvanised by Islamic State, according to analysts.

The US media on Wednesday cited American officials and announced the death of Osama bin Laden's son Hamza bin Laden. The fifteenth child of Osama bin Laden's 20 children, Hamza provided a younger voice for the group whose ageing leaders have struggled to "inspire" terrorists around the world galvanised by Islamic State, according to analysts. Here's taking a look at the life and times of Hamza's father Osama bin Laden. Born in a prosperous family Osama bin Mohammed bin Awad bin Laden was born in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 1957 in a prosperous family. He was the seventh of the 50 children born to Muhammad bin Laden and the only son born to his mother Alia Ghanem. After her split with Mohammad Awad bin Laden, Osama's mother took him and lived with her new husband. Osama, therefore, spent most of his childhood with his step-siblings. He attended the most prestigious school of Jedda, Al Thagher Model School. At 14, he emerged as an outstanding student in his school. Due to his brilliant performance in studies, Osama was invited to join a small Islamic study group. He attended the Islamic group along with several other boys from imminent Jedda family. According to reports, it was this place which first sowed the seeds of violent jihad in Osama. During this period Laden grew untrimmed beards and imitated Prophet's dress. US hailed Osama bin Laden, called him Freedom Fighter Osama who laid the plot for the deadly 9/11 attack on the World Trade Centre was once referred to as "Freedom Fighter" by the United States in 1989. The event traces back to the Soviet Union's invasion in Afghanistan. Osama who believed it was his duty as a Muslim to help the country, moved to Afghanistan from Saudi Arabia and joined the Afghan forces in 1979. He also trained mujahideen, a group of Islamic jihadists here. After the Soviets withdrew from the country in 1989, Osama returned to Saudi Arabia as a hero and the United States referred to him as "Freedom Fighters". Stripped off his citizenship The once-celebrated Osama bin Laden was sent out of his country in 1992. During the Persian Gulf War, Osama was provoked by the US occupation of Saudi Arabia and entered into conflict with the government charging them of corruption. He also publicly denounced the Saudi government's reliance on American troops. Eventually, he ended up going to an exile in Sudan in 1992. By 1993, Osama bin Laden had formed a secret group called Al-Qaeda. The group comprising of militant Muslims aimed at taking up jihadist cause across the world. Over the years Al-Qaeda organised several global attacks. Due to his continuous involvement in extremist jihadist, Saudi Arabia stripped off his citizenship in 1994 and also confiscated his passport. Osama was also disowned by his family. His war against the US increased over the years. In 1996, he detonated bombs against US-occupied forces in Saudi Arabia. The group continued to organise several attacks against the US in the next few years. War against humanity Due to the rising war against humanity, Sudan also exiled him in 1996. Thereafter Osama took refuge in Afghanistan where he received aid and protection from country's militant group Taliban. After his engagement with the Taliban, Osama declared a holy war against the US. Osama bin Laden led group conducted one of the most deadly attacks on the US on September 11, 2001. The attack claimed the lives of over thousands of civilians. After the attack, Osama went into hiding for over 10 years. A decade after the attack, the then US President Barack Obama announced on May 2, 2011, about the killing of Osama in Pakistan's Abbottabad.

Profile of slain Al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden

Malaysia will review its labour laws to cut an "over dependence" on foreign labour and address other issues, its prime minister said on Thursday, amid simmering discontent against overseas workers who make up 46 per cent of the labour force.

In the first quarter of the year, Southeast Asia`s third biggest economy had a labour force of 15.5 million. More than 7 million of them were foreigners, from countries such as Bangladesh, with many working in the construction and hotel industries.

Labour force refers to employed or unemployed people between the age of 16 and 64. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-malaysia-restart-massive-belt-and-road-project-after-hiccups-238327">Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad</a> told a gathering of international trade chambers that generating more skilled jobs, raising salaries and wages, enhancing "management of migrant workers" and improving labour market conditions were some of his government`s top labour reform priorities.

"These reforms are crucial, not only in developing human capital to support our future economic growth but also in addressing job mismatches which contribute to graduate underemployment, unemployment, and slow wage growth as well as over-dependence on foreign labour," he said.

The prime minister said his government was also working on increasing the female labour force participation rate to 59 percent by next year. In the first quarter, the figure was 55.7 percent. 
&nbsp;

Malaysia will review its labour laws to cut an "over dependence" on foreign labour and address other issues, its prime minister said on Thursday, amid simmering discontent against overseas workers who make up 46 per cent of the labour force.

Malaysia will review its labour laws to cut an "over dependence" on foreign labour and address other issues, its prime minister said on Thursday, amid simmering discontent against overseas workers who make up 46 per cent of the labour force. In the first quarter of the year, Southeast Asia`s third biggest economy had a labour force of 15.5 million. More than 7 million of them were foreigners, from countries such as Bangladesh, with many working in the construction and hotel industries. Labour force refers to employed or unemployed people between the age of 16 and 64. Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad told a gathering of international trade chambers that generating more skilled jobs, raising salaries and wages, enhancing "management of migrant workers" and improving labour market conditions were some of his government`s top labour reform priorities. "These reforms are crucial, not only in developing human capital to support our future economic growth but also in addressing job mismatches which contribute to graduate underemployment, unemployment, and slow wage growth as well as over-dependence on foreign labour," he said. The prime minister said his government was also working on increasing the female labour force participation rate to 59 percent by next year. In the first quarter, the figure was 55.7 percent.

Malaysia to reform labour laws to cut 'over-dependence' on foreigners: PM

Guatemala`s refugee agency meets only sporadically and operates on a bare-bones basis, adding to doubts about how the crime-wracked, impoverished Central American country will cope with a surge in asylum-seekers under a deal signed with Washington.

Under Friday`s accord, Guatemala becomes a so-called "safe third country," turning it into a buffer zone for migrants trying to reach the United States, and potentially lifting applications for asylum in Guatemala from a few hundred a years to tens of thousands.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-tears-into-china-on-twitter-as-trade-talks-resume-239492">US President Donald Trump</a> has pushed Mexico and Guatemala to sign such agreements to make asylum-seekers passing through their territory solicit haven in those countries, and not in the United States.

Mexico has so far refused, but under pressure from Trump it has accepted taking in Central American migrants while their applications for asylum in the United States are processed by US courts.&nbsp;

Guatemala only agreed after Trump threatened to impose what <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/guatemalan-presidential-candidates-question-us-migration-deal-238957">President Jimmy Morales</a> described on Facebook as "drastic" economic sanctions against the country, which is heavily dependent on billions of dollars in remittances sent home by Guatemalans in the United States.&nbsp;

Asylum applicants, migration experts and critics of the deal say Guatemala, which itself sends tens of thousands of migrants to the United States each year, has the scant capacity to process asylum-seekers, never mind keep them safe.

"Asylum infrastructure in Guatemala and other parts of the region is still under development," said William Spindler, senior external engagement coordinator for Latin America at the United Nations` refugee agency UNHCR.

"So the number of individual asylum-seekers who can be received and processed with adequate protection guarantees is still limited."

Decisions about whether to grant asylum fall to Guatemala`s National Commission for Refugees (CONARE), an agency represented by officials from the ministries of foreign relations, interior, labour and migration who meet periodically to adjudicate claims.

The CONARE "is not an office as such, and meets only to analyse, grant and deny shelter," said Alejandra Mena, a spokeswoman for Guatemala`s General Directorate of Migration.

Compared to the United States and neighbouring Mexico, which has received tens of thousands of asylum applicants, the numbers of applicants in Guatemala has been negligible.

As such, CONARE met only twice between 2013 and 2014, according to a 2018 UNHCR document. Meetings since that year have increased after a jump in applications, it said.

Between 2002 and 2014, the document said, CONARE analysed an average of seven cases per year. From 2015, applications began accelerating, and so far in 2019, CONARE has received 226. But none of those has yet been approved, said Mena.&nbsp;

Critics say that backlog could spell trouble for the deal, which was immediately called into question by the two contenders battling to assume Guatemala`s presidency in 2020.

"If you can`t deal with 60 or 100 requests, what will you do when you receive hundreds?," said Mauro Verzeletti, director of a migrant shelter in Guatemala City.

Safe country

Oscar, 47, a public health technician from Honduras who declined to give his last name out of fear of reprisals, said he had been waiting six months for asylum in Guatemala.

He fled the violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula after officials harassed him for investigating the murders of LGBTQ individuals, including a friend, he said.&nbsp;

In Mexico, he joined a caravan of migrants, but fell ill and could not manage the long daily treks further north toward the US border.&nbsp;

Oscar eventually ended up back in Guatemala, but he told Reuters the risks he faced just across the border with Honduras were almost the same as at home.&nbsp;

"To me, the idea of a `safe country` is a country without corruption, without violence, that gives us work, home and food, but Guatemala has no jobs (even) for Guatemalans," Oscar said.&nbsp;

"It`s not that I`m ungrateful, but Guatemala has the same conditions as Honduras," he added.

People from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador make up the bulk of the migrants caught on the US-Mexican border, and the so-called Northern Triangle countries have some of the highest murder rates in the Americas.

Since January, Oscar has had two interviews at Guatemala`s migration directorate, which granted him a provisional residence permit he must renew every month. Still, migrant shelters only allow three-day stays, and finding work has been tough, he said.

The US-Guatemala agreement faces other challenges.&nbsp;

On July 14, Guatemala`s Constitutional Court ruled that Morales could not sign a safe third country agreement without congressional approval, an obstacle that the two presidential candidates pointed to last weekend.

Interior Minister Enrique Degenhart, who signed the deal in Washington, and Foreign Minister Sandra Jovel on Monday denied that Guatemala had reached the agreement under duress.&nbsp;

"We were not coerced, pressured, or forced to sign anything at all," Degenhart said. 
&nbsp;

Guatemala`s refugee agency meets only sporadically and operates on a bare-bones basis, adding to doubts about how the crime-wracked, impoverished Central American country will cope with a surge in asylum-seekers under a deal signed with Washington.

Guatemala`s refugee agency meets only sporadically and operates on a bare-bones basis, adding to doubts about how the crime-wracked, impoverished Central American country will cope with a surge in asylum-seekers under a deal signed with Washington. Under Friday`s accord, Guatemala becomes a so-called "safe third country," turning it into a buffer zone for migrants trying to reach the United States, and potentially lifting applications for asylum in Guatemala from a few hundred a years to tens of thousands. US President Donald Trump has pushed Mexico and Guatemala to sign such agreements to make asylum-seekers passing through their territory solicit haven in those countries, and not in the United States. Mexico has so far refused, but under pressure from Trump it has accepted taking in Central American migrants while their applications for asylum in the United States are processed by US courts. Guatemala only agreed after Trump threatened to impose what President Jimmy Morales described on Facebook as "drastic" economic sanctions against the country, which is heavily dependent on billions of dollars in remittances sent home by Guatemalans in the United States. Asylum applicants, migration experts and critics of the deal say Guatemala, which itself sends tens of thousands of migrants to the United States each year, has the scant capacity to process asylum-seekers, never mind keep them safe. "Asylum infrastructure in Guatemala and other parts of the region is still under development," said William Spindler, senior external engagement coordinator for Latin America at the United Nations` refugee agency UNHCR. "So the number of individual asylum-seekers who can be received and processed with adequate protection guarantees is still limited." Decisions about whether to grant asylum fall to Guatemala`s National Commission for Refugees (CONARE), an agency represented by officials from the ministries of foreign relations, interior, labour and migration who meet periodically to adjudicate claims. The CONARE "is not an office as such, and meets only to analyse, grant and deny shelter," said Alejandra Mena, a spokeswoman for Guatemala`s General Directorate of Migration. Compared to the United States and neighbouring Mexico, which has received tens of thousands of asylum applicants, the numbers of applicants in Guatemala has been negligible. As such, CONARE met only twice between 2013 and 2014, according to a 2018 UNHCR document. Meetings since that year have increased after a jump in applications, it said. Between 2002 and 2014, the document said, CONARE analysed an average of seven cases per year. From 2015, applications began accelerating, and so far in 2019, CONARE has received 226. But none of those has yet been approved, said Mena. Critics say that backlog could spell trouble for the deal, which was immediately called into question by the two contenders battling to assume Guatemala`s presidency in 2020. "If you can`t deal with 60 or 100 requests, what will you do when you receive hundreds?," said Mauro Verzeletti, director of a migrant shelter in Guatemala City. Safe country Oscar, 47, a public health technician from Honduras who declined to give his last name out of fear of reprisals, said he had been waiting six months for asylum in Guatemala. He fled the violent Honduran city of San Pedro Sula after officials harassed him for investigating the murders of LGBTQ individuals, including a friend, he said. In Mexico, he joined a caravan of migrants, but fell ill and could not manage the long daily treks further north toward the US border. Oscar eventually ended up back in Guatemala, but he told Reuters the risks he faced just across the border with Honduras were almost the same as at home. "To me, the idea of a `safe country` is a country without corruption, without violence, that gives us work, home and food, but Guatemala has no jobs (even) for Guatemalans," Oscar said. "It`s not that I`m ungrateful, but Guatemala has the same conditions as Honduras," he added. People from Honduras, Guatemala and El Salvador make up the bulk of the migrants caught on the US-Mexican border, and the so-called Northern Triangle countries have some of the highest murder rates in the Americas. Since January, Oscar has had two interviews at Guatemala`s migration directorate, which granted him a provisional residence permit he must renew every month. Still, migrant shelters only allow three-day stays, and finding work has been tough, he said. The US-Guatemala agreement faces other challenges. On July 14, Guatemala`s Constitutional Court ruled that Morales could not sign a safe third country agreement without congressional approval, an obstacle that the two presidential candidates pointed to last weekend. Interior Minister Enrique Degenhart, who signed the deal in Washington, and Foreign Minister Sandra Jovel on Monday denied that Guatemala had reached the agreement under duress. "We were not coerced, pressured, or forced to sign anything at all," Degenhart said.

Guatemala's shortcomings raise doubts about US migration deal

The US Senate on Wednesday confirmed Kelly Craft, a Republican donor who is currently ambassador to Canada, as ambassador to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-led-forces-israel-among-states-rapped-by-un-for-killing-children-239735">United Nations</a>, despite opposition from Democrats who criticized <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-nominee-sparks-worries-of-intelligence-politicization-239554">President Donald Trump`s</a> nominee as too inexperienced for the post.

The Senate backed Craft by a vote of 56 to 34, largely along party lines, moving to end seven months without a permanent&nbsp; 
US envoy to the world body.&nbsp;

UN ambassador is one of several high-level positions in the Trump administration held for months by temporary appointees as the White House struggles to deal with a chronic, high turnover of top administration officials.

The Senate last week confirmed Army Secretary Mark Esper, a former lobbyist, as secretary of defence, ending a record seven-month period in which the Pentagon lacked a permanent top official.

This week, Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats announced his resignation.

Trump nominated Craft, 57, for the UN post after a recommendation from Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who represents her home state of Kentucky.

She had faced fierce opposition from some Democrats. Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, accused Craft of lacking the "seriousness and professionalism" for the post at the world body.

Craft, the wife of a billionaire coal industry executive, generated controversy shortly after assuming her post in Ottawa by telling Canadian Broadcasting she believed "both sides" of the climate change debate.

However, she acknowledged during her confirmation hearing that climate change is a global threat and pledged to recuse herself from any UN 
&nbsp;talks on the issue involving coal because of her husband`s position.

Menendez on Wednesday released a report that said Craft spent the majority of her time as ambassador to Canada outside of the country. 
Craft`s backers called her a tough negotiator on a trade deal with Canada and Mexico who had established decent working relationships with both Republicans and Democrats.

The craft will have the difficult job of defending Trump`s "America First" foreign policy and navigating his criticism of the United Nations while getting global diplomats to back US policies.

Trump`s first UN ambassador, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, announced her resignation in October and left the position at the end of last year.

The US Senate on Wednesday confirmed Kelly Craft, a Republican donor who is currently ambassador to Canada, as ambassador to the United Nations, despite opposition from Democrats who criticized President Donald Trump`s nominee as too inexperienced for the post.

The US Senate on Wednesday confirmed Kelly Craft, a Republican donor who is currently ambassador to Canada, as ambassador to the United Nations, despite opposition from Democrats who criticized President Donald Trump`s nominee as too inexperienced for the post. The Senate backed Craft by a vote of 56 to 34, largely along party lines, moving to end seven months without a permanent US envoy to the world body. UN ambassador is one of several high-level positions in the Trump administration held for months by temporary appointees as the White House struggles to deal with a chronic, high turnover of top administration officials. The Senate last week confirmed Army Secretary Mark Esper, a former lobbyist, as secretary of defence, ending a record seven-month period in which the Pentagon lacked a permanent top official. This week, Director of National Intelligence Dan Coats announced his resignation. Trump nominated Craft, 57, for the UN post after a recommendation from Republican Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, who represents her home state of Kentucky. She had faced fierce opposition from some Democrats. Senator Bob Menendez, the top Democrat on the Foreign Relations Committee, accused Craft of lacking the "seriousness and professionalism" for the post at the world body. Craft, the wife of a billionaire coal industry executive, generated controversy shortly after assuming her post in Ottawa by telling Canadian Broadcasting she believed "both sides" of the climate change debate. However, she acknowledged during her confirmation hearing that climate change is a global threat and pledged to recuse herself from any UN talks on the issue involving coal because of her husband`s position. Menendez on Wednesday released a report that said Craft spent the majority of her time as ambassador to Canada outside of the country. Craft`s backers called her a tough negotiator on a trade deal with Canada and Mexico who had established decent working relationships with both Republicans and Democrats. The craft will have the difficult job of defending Trump`s "America First" foreign policy and navigating his criticism of the United Nations while getting global diplomats to back US policies. Trump`s first UN ambassador, former South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley, announced her resignation in October and left the position at the end of last year.

US Senate confirms Kelly Craft as ambassador to United Nations

The new government led by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/heres-how-boris-johnson-can-unite-a-country-mired-in-a-brexit-identity-crisis-239628">Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a>, which took power last week, has pledged to leave the trading bloc without an agreement in three months unless the EU agrees to renegotiate the deal agreed by his predecessor Theresa May.

Ministers have warned that one of the most hotly contested elements of the divorce agreement the Irish border backstop will have to be struck out if there is to be a deal, something the EU has repeatedly said it won`t agree to.&nbsp;

In his first major policy announcement, new finance minister Sajid Javid doubled spending on preparations for a no-deal exit this year. The extra money will fund a nationwide advertising campaign, help Britons living abroad, ensure the supply of medicine and improve infrastructure around ports.

"With 92 days until the UK leaves the European Union it’s vital that we intensify our planning to ensure we are ready,” Javid said. "We want to get a good deal that abolishes the anti-democratic backstop. But if we can`t get a good deal, we`ll have to leave without one."

Wrenching the United Kingdom out of the EU without a deal means there would be no formal transition arrangement to cover everything from post-Brexit pet passports to customs arrangements on the Northern Irish border.

Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London`s position as the pre-eminent international financial centre.&nbsp;

The finance ministry said among other initiatives, 434 million pounds will be spent to ensure vital supplies of medicines and medical products can be brought into the country, including hiring additional freight capacity, warehousing and stockpiling.

To get people and businesses ready for a no-deal <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-boris-johnsons-top-team-meet-to-plot-brexit-gambit-238368">Brexit</a>, 138 million pounds will be spent on one of the biggest peacetime advertising campaigns.&nbsp;

The finance ministry also said a further 1 billion pounds will be available for government departments and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to improve their readiness.

This means the government has in total allocated 6.3 billion pounds to prepare for a no-deal exit, including 4.2 billion pounds of funding for this financial year.&nbsp;

Javid’s predecessor Philip Hammond, who opposed leaving the EU without a divorce deal, was accused by Brexit supporters of failing to spend enough money to get Britain ready for a no-deal Brexit, undermining its negotiating position with Brussels.

The new government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, which took power last week, has pledged to leave the trading bloc without an agreement in three months unless the EU agrees to renegotiate the deal agreed by his predecessor Theresa May.

The new government led by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, which took power last week, has pledged to leave the trading bloc without an agreement in three months unless the EU agrees to renegotiate the deal agreed by his predecessor Theresa May. Ministers have warned that one of the most hotly contested elements of the divorce agreement the Irish border backstop will have to be struck out if there is to be a deal, something the EU has repeatedly said it won`t agree to. In his first major policy announcement, new finance minister Sajid Javid doubled spending on preparations for a no-deal exit this year. The extra money will fund a nationwide advertising campaign, help Britons living abroad, ensure the supply of medicine and improve infrastructure around ports. "With 92 days until the UK leaves the European Union it’s vital that we intensify our planning to ensure we are ready,” Javid said. "We want to get a good deal that abolishes the anti-democratic backstop. But if we can`t get a good deal, we`ll have to leave without one." Wrenching the United Kingdom out of the EU without a deal means there would be no formal transition arrangement to cover everything from post-Brexit pet passports to customs arrangements on the Northern Irish border. Many investors say a no-deal Brexit would send shock waves through the world economy, tip Britain into a recession, roil financial markets and weaken London`s position as the pre-eminent international financial centre. The finance ministry said among other initiatives, 434 million pounds will be spent to ensure vital supplies of medicines and medical products can be brought into the country, including hiring additional freight capacity, warehousing and stockpiling. To get people and businesses ready for a no-deal Brexit, 138 million pounds will be spent on one of the biggest peacetime advertising campaigns. The finance ministry also said a further 1 billion pounds will be available for government departments and the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland to improve their readiness. This means the government has in total allocated 6.3 billion pounds to prepare for a no-deal exit, including 4.2 billion pounds of funding for this financial year. Javid’s predecessor Philip Hammond, who opposed leaving the EU without a divorce deal, was accused by Brexit supporters of failing to spend enough money to get Britain ready for a no-deal Brexit, undermining its negotiating position with Brussels.

Britain to spend an extra $2.6 billion on no-deal Brexit planning

An explosion on Wednesday hit a bus travelling on a highway between two key cities in western Afghanistan, killing at least 34 passengers, including children, and injuring 17, officials said.

Security has been deteriorating across Afghanistan, with the Taliban and Islamic State fighters mounting near-daily attacks on Afghan forces, government employees and civilians.

The blast on the highway linking the provincial capitals of Herat and Kandahar took place in the Ab Khorma area of Farah province, said provincial police spokesman Mohibullah Mohib.

"The bomb was freshly planted by the Taliban insurgents to target Afghan and foreign security forces," he said.

Taliban officials were not immediately available to comment on the statement and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack.

Government and aid officials say the numbers of those being killed and maimed is rising because of explosives newly planted by the Taliban, who now control more territory than at any point since their ouster nearly 18 years ago.

Wednesday`s blast comes ahead of presidential elections next month, when US officials and Taliban representatives are also due to resume talks to agree a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees.

An explosion on Wednesday hit a bus travelling on a highway between two key cities in western Afghanistan, killing at least 34 passengers, including children, and injuring 17, officials said.

An explosion on Wednesday hit a bus travelling on a highway between two key cities in western Afghanistan, killing at least 34 passengers, including children, and injuring 17, officials said. Security has been deteriorating across Afghanistan, with the Taliban and Islamic State fighters mounting near-daily attacks on Afghan forces, government employees and civilians. The blast on the highway linking the provincial capitals of Herat and Kandahar took place in the Ab Khorma area of Farah province, said provincial police spokesman Mohibullah Mohib. "The bomb was freshly planted by the Taliban insurgents to target Afghan and foreign security forces," he said. Taliban officials were not immediately available to comment on the statement and there was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack. Government and aid officials say the numbers of those being killed and maimed is rising because of explosives newly planted by the Taliban, who now control more territory than at any point since their ouster nearly 18 years ago. Wednesday`s blast comes ahead of presidential elections next month, when US officials and Taliban representatives are also due to resume talks to agree a timetable for the withdrawal of foreign forces in exchange for security guarantees.

Afghanistan highway blast kills at least 34 on bus, injures 17

Talks between Sudan's ruling military council and the opposition over the path to a new sovereign council to run the country after the overthrow of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/sudan-charges-ousted-leader-omar-al-bashir-with-corruption-state-media-226978">President Omar al-Bashir </a>were postponed on Tuesday after four young protesters were shot dead.

Below is a timeline of key developments:

Dec 19, 2018 - Hundreds protest in the northern city of Atbara against soaring bread prices. Demonstrations spurred by a broader economic crisis spread to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-2-killed-as-sudan-military-attempts-to-break-up-sit-in-outside-khartoum-army-hq-223791">Khartoum and other cities</a> in the days that follow. Crowds start chanting: "The people want the fall of the regime" a slogan used in the "Arab Spring" uprisings that unseated rulers across the Muslim world in 2011. Security services respond with tear gas and gunfire.

April 11, 2019 - The army overthrows President Omar al-Bashir, ending his three decades in power. The generals announce two years of military rule followed by-elections. Street celebrations turn into more demonstrations as hundreds of thousands demand a handover to civilians.

June 3 - Security forces raid a sit-in protest outside the defence ministry in Khartoum. Crowds flee in panic. In the days that follow, opposition-linked medics say more than 100 people were killed in the assault.

June 16 - Bashir appears in public for the first time since his overthrow as he is taken from prison to be charged with corruption-related offences. He has already been charged with incitement and involvement in the killing of protesters.

July 5 - The military council and a coalition of opposition and protest groups agree provisionally to share power for three years, after mediation by Ethiopia and pressure from the African Union and world powers. They signed a political accord on July 17 that defines the transition's institutions. Differences remain over the wording of a constitutional declaration.

July 29 - At least four children and one adult are shot dead when security forces break up a student protest against fuel and bread shortages in the <a href="El-Obeid">city of El-Obeid</a>, opposition-linked doctors say.

Talks between Sudan's ruling military council and the opposition over the path to a new sovereign council to run the country after the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir were postponed on Tuesday after four young protesters were shot dead.

Talks between Sudan's ruling military council and the opposition over the path to a new sovereign council to run the country after the overthrow of President Omar al-Bashir were postponed on Tuesday after four young protesters were shot dead. Below is a timeline of key developments: Dec 19, 2018 - Hundreds protest in the northern city of Atbara against soaring bread prices. Demonstrations spurred by a broader economic crisis spread to Khartoum and other cities in the days that follow. Crowds start chanting: "The people want the fall of the regime" a slogan used in the "Arab Spring" uprisings that unseated rulers across the Muslim world in 2011. Security services respond with tear gas and gunfire. April 11, 2019 - The army overthrows President Omar al-Bashir, ending his three decades in power. The generals announce two years of military rule followed by-elections. Street celebrations turn into more demonstrations as hundreds of thousands demand a handover to civilians. June 3 - Security forces raid a sit-in protest outside the defence ministry in Khartoum. Crowds flee in panic. In the days that follow, opposition-linked medics say more than 100 people were killed in the assault. June 16 - Bashir appears in public for the first time since his overthrow as he is taken from prison to be charged with corruption-related offences. He has already been charged with incitement and involvement in the killing of protesters. July 5 - The military council and a coalition of opposition and protest groups agree provisionally to share power for three years, after mediation by Ethiopia and pressure from the African Union and world powers. They signed a political accord on July 17 that defines the transition's institutions. Differences remain over the wording of a constitutional declaration. July 29 - At least four children and one adult are shot dead when security forces break up a student protest against fuel and bread shortages in the city of El-Obeid, opposition-linked doctors say.

Timeline: Key dates in Sudan's political upheaval

Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders offered an unabashed defence of their progressive policies during a Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday, as their more moderate rivals aimed their proposals as unrealistic and politically untenable.

The debate frequently pitted the two US senators against the rest of the 10 candidates on stage, with healthcare and immigration policy highlighting the divisions between the two camps.

On the first night of back-to-back debates, Democrats were united in stressing the urgency of defeating Republican <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/outrage-as-donald-trump-brands-mostly-black-baltimore-infested-mess-238913">President Donald Trump</a> in the November 2020 election. But they delivered bruising critiques of their party rivals` positions as detailed policy disputes dominated the nearly three-hour event.

Trump has been eager to paint the entire Democratic field as socialists, seeking to make any eventual nominee untenable to voters by arguing Democrats want to raise taxes, open the US borders and take away private healthcare.&nbsp;

The dispute between the moderate and liberal wings of the Democratic Party highlighted the central question of the nominating contest: Which candidate in the field of more than two dozen would be best positioned to beat Trump next year.

Montana Governor Steve Bullock, emerging as a forceful voice in his first presidential debate, criticized fellow candidates for being too liberal in the opening round of debates last month in Miami.

"Watching that last debate, folks seemed more concerned about scoring points or outdoing each other with wish-list economics than making sure Americans know we hear their voices and will help their lives," Bullock said. 
Progressives argued their policies would excite voters and allow them to draw a distinct contrast to Trump.&nbsp;

Taking a jab at former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/democrats-clash-on-healthcare-in-feisty-first-us-presidential-debate-230721">US Representative John Delaney</a>, who often played the role of liberal foil during the debate, Warren said: "I don’t understand why anybody goes to all the trouble of running for president of the United States to talk about what we really can’t do and shouldn’t fight for."&nbsp;

As the front-runners in the polls among the candidates debating on Tuesday, Sanders and Warren often found themselves defending the policy positions they share.&nbsp;

"I get a little bit tired of Democrats afraid of big ideas. Republicans are not afraid of big ideas," Sanders said.

The two are seeking to gain ground against former Vice President Joe Biden, who currently leads in opinion polls among Democratic contenders.

Healthcare, Immigration

The early part of the debate centred on a dispute about the future of the US healthcare system, and whether Democrats should embrace Medicare for All proposals that would have the government take over the health insurance industry.&nbsp;

The divisions over how best to provide Americans access to affordable healthcare is one of the early defining issues in the Democratic race for the 2020 presidential nomination to take on Trump.

Some contenders argued the proposal pushed by the progressives would take private insurance away from people who currently prefer their coverage and force a tax increase on the middle class.

"Why do we have to be the party of taking something away from people?" said Delaney, who has been critical of Medicare for All. 
&nbsp; 
He argued that Democrats should not back proposals that would eliminate private insurance.&nbsp;

"They are running on telling half the country that your health insurance is illegal," Delaney said, pointing to Warren and Sanders. Warren interjected to defend the proposal.&nbsp;

"We`re not trying to take healthcare away from anyone. That`s what Republicans are trying to do."

Sanders, who has introduced a Medicare for All bill in the US Senate, said: "Healthcare is a human right, not a privilege. I believe that I will fight for that."

The candidates also differed on immigration policy - disagreeing on whether illegal border crossings should be decriminalized.

"You don`t have to decriminalize everything," Bullock said. "What you have to do is to have a president in there with the judgment and the decency to treat someone that comes to the border like one of our own."

Warren disagreed, saying: "We need to expand legal immigration, we need to create a path for citizenship not just for dreamers but for grandmas and for people who have been working here in the farms and for students who have overstayed their visas."

"You are playing into Donald Trump`s hands," Bullock said.&nbsp;

Lower-tier candidates were aiming to produce the kind of post-debate surge that US Senator Kamala Harris enjoyed after a strong performance in the first debate after confronting Biden on the issue of race.&nbsp;

The two nights in Detroit could be the last chance for many contenders to debate on the national stage, as the Democratic National Committee will double its fundraising and polling requirements to qualify for participation in the next debates in September and October.

Ten more candidates will face off on Wednesday night, including Biden and Harris.&nbsp;

Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders offered an unabashed defence of their progressive policies during a Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday, as their more moderate rivals aimed their proposals as unrealistic and politically untenable.

Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders offered an unabashed defence of their progressive policies during a Democratic presidential debate on Tuesday, as their more moderate rivals aimed their proposals as unrealistic and politically untenable. The debate frequently pitted the two US senators against the rest of the 10 candidates on stage, with healthcare and immigration policy highlighting the divisions between the two camps. On the first night of back-to-back debates, Democrats were united in stressing the urgency of defeating Republican President Donald Trump in the November 2020 election. But they delivered bruising critiques of their party rivals` positions as detailed policy disputes dominated the nearly three-hour event. Trump has been eager to paint the entire Democratic field as socialists, seeking to make any eventual nominee untenable to voters by arguing Democrats want to raise taxes, open the US borders and take away private healthcare. The dispute between the moderate and liberal wings of the Democratic Party highlighted the central question of the nominating contest: Which candidate in the field of more than two dozen would be best positioned to beat Trump next year. Montana Governor Steve Bullock, emerging as a forceful voice in his first presidential debate, criticized fellow candidates for being too liberal in the opening round of debates last month in Miami. "Watching that last debate, folks seemed more concerned about scoring points or outdoing each other with wish-list economics than making sure Americans know we hear their voices and will help their lives," Bullock said. Progressives argued their policies would excite voters and allow them to draw a distinct contrast to Trump. Taking a jab at former US Representative John Delaney, who often played the role of liberal foil during the debate, Warren said: "I don’t understand why anybody goes to all the trouble of running for president of the United States to talk about what we really can’t do and shouldn’t fight for." As the front-runners in the polls among the candidates debating on Tuesday, Sanders and Warren often found themselves defending the policy positions they share. "I get a little bit tired of Democrats afraid of big ideas. Republicans are not afraid of big ideas," Sanders said. The two are seeking to gain ground against former Vice President Joe Biden, who currently leads in opinion polls among Democratic contenders. Healthcare, Immigration The early part of the debate centred on a dispute about the future of the US healthcare system, and whether Democrats should embrace Medicare for All proposals that would have the government take over the health insurance industry. The divisions over how best to provide Americans access to affordable healthcare is one of the early defining issues in the Democratic race for the 2020 presidential nomination to take on Trump. Some contenders argued the proposal pushed by the progressives would take private insurance away from people who currently prefer their coverage and force a tax increase on the middle class. "Why do we have to be the party of taking something away from people?" said Delaney, who has been critical of Medicare for All. He argued that Democrats should not back proposals that would eliminate private insurance. "They are running on telling half the country that your health insurance is illegal," Delaney said, pointing to Warren and Sanders. Warren interjected to defend the proposal. "We`re not trying to take healthcare away from anyone. That`s what Republicans are trying to do." Sanders, who has introduced a Medicare for All bill in the US Senate, said: "Healthcare is a human right, not a privilege. I believe that I will fight for that." The candidates also differed on immigration policy - disagreeing on whether illegal border crossings should be decriminalized. "You don`t have to decriminalize everything," Bullock said. "What you have to do is to have a president in there with the judgment and the decency to treat someone that comes to the border like one of our own." Warren disagreed, saying: "We need to expand legal immigration, we need to create a path for citizenship not just for dreamers but for grandmas and for people who have been working here in the farms and for students who have overstayed their visas." "You are playing into Donald Trump`s hands," Bullock said. Lower-tier candidates were aiming to produce the kind of post-debate surge that US Senator Kamala Harris enjoyed after a strong performance in the first debate after confronting Biden on the issue of race. The two nights in Detroit could be the last chance for many contenders to debate on the national stage, as the Democratic National Committee will double its fundraising and polling requirements to qualify for participation in the next debates in September and October. Ten more candidates will face off on Wednesday night, including Biden and Harris.

Elizabeth Warren and Bernie Sanders defend progressive policies in US Democratic debate

Condolences pour in for <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/found-vg-siddharthas-body-floating-on-water-shifted-to-hospital-police-239607">Coffee King VG Siddhartha</a> after his body was found on the banks of Netravati River near Hoige Bazaar in Mangaluru by local fisherman on Wednesday.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ccd-founder-missing-signature-on-note-does-not-tally-with-siddharthas-signature-in-annual-reports-says-i-t-department-239586">58-year-old businessman </a>is the son-in-law of former Karnataka Chief Minister SM Krishna and was missing since Monday evening from Mangaluru.

Former Karnataka chief minister Sidaramaiah called his death "disturbing and mysterious" and asked for an "impartial and fair investigation" into his death.

Siddaramaiah said, "The death of V G Siddhartha is both disturbing and mysterious. The reasons and the invisible hands that ended his life in this tragic way should be unearthed through impartial and fair investigation."

"Our party and I shall always stand with Shri. S M Krishna in their fight for justice. The letter supposed to have written by V G Siddhartha few days before his death has discussed about tax terrorism, which is an ugly face of politically motivated institutions."

"What signals are we sending to the budding entrepreneurs without even an attempt to reform?"

Congress leader Milind Deora tweeted, "Saddened by #VGSiddhartha’s untimely death. My condolences to team @CafeCoffeeDay &amp; Siddharth’s family."

"Siddharth’s letter must be investigated. Risk &amp; failure are an integral part of the entrepreneurial story. Suicide isn’t. Hope govt reflects on its anti-business policies!"

Deputy chief minister of Karnataka Dr. G Parameshwara tweeted, " The news is unthinkable. My deepest condolences to Shri SM Krishna and other family members that #VGSiddhartha has left behind. This is a huge loss to our entrepreneurial fraternity! His dream #CafeCoffeeDay will live with us forever."

Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya also reacted to the news saying he was devastated with the contents of the letter. Blaming the government agencies and bank, Mallya said, "The Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair. See what they are doing to me despite offer of full repayment. Vicious and unrelenting."

"I am indirectly related to VG Siddhartha. Excellent human and brilliant entrepreneur. I am devastated with the contents of his letter. The Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair. See what they are doing to me despite offer of full repayment. Vicious and unrelenting.

In Western Countries, Government and Banks help borrowers repay their debts. In my case they are obstructing every possible effort for me to repay my debt whilst competing for my assets. As far as the prima facie criminal case goes wait for the appeal granted.

Condolences pour in for Coffee King VG Siddhartha after his body was found on the banks of Netravati River near Hoige Bazaar in Mangaluru by local fisherman on Wednesday.

Condolences pour in for Coffee King VG Siddhartha after his body was found on the banks of Netravati River near Hoige Bazaar in Mangaluru by local fisherman on Wednesday. The 58-year-old businessman is the son-in-law of former Karnataka Chief Minister SM Krishna and was missing since Monday evening from Mangaluru. Former Karnataka chief minister Sidaramaiah called his death "disturbing and mysterious" and asked for an "impartial and fair investigation" into his death. Siddaramaiah said, "The death of V G Siddhartha is both disturbing and mysterious. The reasons and the invisible hands that ended his life in this tragic way should be unearthed through impartial and fair investigation." "Our party and I shall always stand with Shri. S M Krishna in their fight for justice. The letter supposed to have written by V G Siddhartha few days before his death has discussed about tax terrorism, which is an ugly face of politically motivated institutions." "What signals are we sending to the budding entrepreneurs without even an attempt to reform?" Congress leader Milind Deora tweeted, "Saddened by #VGSiddhartha’s untimely death. My condolences to team @CafeCoffeeDay & Siddharth’s family." "Siddharth’s letter must be investigated. Risk & failure are an integral part of the entrepreneurial story. Suicide isn’t. Hope govt reflects on its anti-business policies!" Deputy chief minister of Karnataka Dr. G Parameshwara tweeted, " The news is unthinkable. My deepest condolences to Shri SM Krishna and other family members that #VGSiddhartha has left behind. This is a huge loss to our entrepreneurial fraternity! His dream #CafeCoffeeDay will live with us forever." Fugitive businessman Vijay Mallya also reacted to the news saying he was devastated with the contents of the letter. Blaming the government agencies and bank, Mallya said, "The Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair. See what they are doing to me despite offer of full repayment. Vicious and unrelenting." "I am indirectly related to VG Siddhartha. Excellent human and brilliant entrepreneur. I am devastated with the contents of his letter. The Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair. See what they are doing to me despite offer of full repayment. Vicious and unrelenting. In Western Countries, Government and Banks help borrowers repay their debts. In my case they are obstructing every possible effort for me to repay my debt whilst competing for my assets. As far as the prima facie criminal case goes wait for the appeal granted.

Govt Agencies and Banks can drive anyone to despair, tweets Vijay Mallya on VG Siddhartha's death

As many as 56 Taliban terrorists, including seven group commanders, were killed and 30 others sustained injuries in an operation carried out by Afghan forces in the country`s northern province of Baghlan on Tuesday.

Afghan army spokesperson Mohammad Hanif Rezai said that the government forces targetted the Taliban hideouts in the Qurgan Tepa area located near the provincial capital Pol-e-Khomri.&nbsp;

The crackdown was launched in the wee hours of Tuesday after the terrorists attacked security checkpoints in the Qurgan Tepa area.

Provincial police spokesman Jawed Basharat also confirmed the operations, saying that more than 50 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the crackdown, reported Xinhua News Agency.

There was no immediate comment from the Taliban regarding the operation.&nbsp;

As many as 56 Taliban terrorists, including seven group commanders, were killed and 30 others sustained injuries in an operation carried out by Afghan forces in the country`s northern province of Baghlan on Tuesday.

As many as 56 Taliban terrorists, including seven group commanders, were killed and 30 others sustained injuries in an operation carried out by Afghan forces in the country`s northern province of Baghlan on Tuesday. Afghan army spokesperson Mohammad Hanif Rezai said that the government forces targetted the Taliban hideouts in the Qurgan Tepa area located near the provincial capital Pol-e-Khomri. The crackdown was launched in the wee hours of Tuesday after the terrorists attacked security checkpoints in the Qurgan Tepa area. Provincial police spokesman Jawed Basharat also confirmed the operations, saying that more than 50 Taliban terrorists have been killed in the crackdown, reported Xinhua News Agency. There was no immediate comment from the Taliban regarding the operation.

56 Taliban terrorists, including 7 group commanders killed in Afghanistan

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