Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise&nbsp;of veteran Congress leader <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/former-delhi-chief-minister-congress-veteran-sheila-dikshit-passes-away-at-81-237286">Sheila&nbsp;Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday</a>.

The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/devastated-to-hear-about-the-passing-away-of-sheila-dikshit-ji-rahul-gandhi-237292">Condolences to her family and supporters</a>. Om Shanti."

President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted, "Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind"

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family &amp; supporters. Om Shanti!"

Congress also paid homage to the&nbsp;veteran leader on Twitter.

The party's&nbsp;Twitter handle posted, "We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief."

Watch: Veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit dies at 81

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BJP MP and party's&nbsp;Delhi president, Manoj Tiwari who recently won the Delhi North-East Lok Sabha seat against Sheila Dikshit said, "I had met her recently, it is a big shock. I remember how she welcomed me like a mother. Delhi will miss her. May God give her family and her close&nbsp;ones the strength to bear this loss."

Former Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "This is the most terrible news to hear, rest in peace Ma’m, you were an inspiration for many women like me who joined politics to make an impactful change in the lives of millions. My heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends, her colleagues and to the people of Delhi."

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "I am sorry to know about the sudden demise of Sheila Dixit ji. We were opponents in politics but friends in personal life. She was a fine human being."

PDP leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Smt Sheila Dixit. She was one of the tallest leaders in Congress &amp; transformed Delhi in her tenure as CM. My deepest condolences to her family &amp; loved ones."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sheila-dikshit-dissolves-all-280-block-congress-committees-in-delhi-231222">Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit</a>&nbsp;breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from the year 1998.&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. <a href="https://t.co/jERrvJlQ4X">pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X</a>
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi/status/1152531814155767809?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PresidentKovind?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PresidentKovind</a>
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) <a href="https://twitter.com/rashtrapatibhvn/status/1152531190340997121?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 20, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Dikshit was the longest-serving chief minister of the national capital, securing three consecutive terms since 1998.&nbsp;

Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday and the last rites will take place on Sunday afternoon.

Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever).

"Her last rites will be performed at 2.30 pm at Nigam Bodh Ghat crematorium", Delhi Congress said.&nbsp;

Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise of veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji.

Prime Minister Modi expressed his grief over the sudden demise of veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit who breathed her last on Saturday. The PM wrote on Twitter, "Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti." President Ram Nath Kovind also tweeted, "Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind" Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said, "The passing away of former Chief Minister of Delhi, Smt. Sheila Dixit is deeply saddening. She was a tall Congress leader known for her congenial nature. Sheilaji was widely respected cutting across party lines. My thoughts are with her bereaved family & supporters. Om Shanti!" Congress also paid homage to the veteran leader on Twitter. The party's Twitter handle posted, "We regret to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit. Lifelong congresswoman and as three time CM of Delhi she transformed the face of Delhi. Our condolences to her family and friends. Hope they find strength in this time of grief." Watch: Veteran Congress leader Sheila Dikshit dies at 81 × BJP MP and party's Delhi president, Manoj Tiwari who recently won the Delhi North-East Lok Sabha seat against Sheila Dikshit said, "I had met her recently, it is a big shock. I remember how she welcomed me like a mother. Delhi will miss her. May God give her family and her close ones the strength to bear this loss." Former Congress spokesperson Priyanka Chaturvedi said, "This is the most terrible news to hear, rest in peace Ma’m, you were an inspiration for many women like me who joined politics to make an impactful change in the lives of millions. My heartfelt condolences to her family, her friends, her colleagues and to the people of Delhi." Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said, "I am sorry to know about the sudden demise of Sheila Dixit ji. We were opponents in politics but friends in personal life. She was a fine human being." PDP leader and former Jammu and Kashmir chief minister Mehbooba Mufti tweeted, "Shocked to hear about the sudden demise of Smt Sheila Dixit. She was one of the tallest leaders in Congress & transformed Delhi in her tenure as CM. My deepest condolences to her family & loved ones." Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit breathed her last on Saturday in the national capital. The Congress veteran served as Delhi's chief minister for 15 years from the year 1998. Deeply saddened by the demise of Sheila Dikshit Ji. Blessed with a warm and affable personality, she made a noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development. Condolences to her family and supporters. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/jERrvJlQ4X — Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 20, 2019 × Sad to hear of the passing of Smt Sheila Dikshit, former Chief Minister of Delhi and a senior political figure. Her term in office was a period of momentous transformation for the capital for which she will be remembered. Condolences to her family and associates #PresidentKovind — President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 20, 2019 × Dikshit was the longest-serving chief minister of the national capital, securing three consecutive terms since 1998. Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit's body was taken to her Nizamuddin East residence on Saturday and the last rites will take place on Sunday afternoon. Thousands of party workers reached her residence to pay their tributes and raised slogans of 'Sheila Dikshit Amar Rahe' (Sheila Dikshit's memory stays forever). "Her last rites will be performed at 2.30 pm at Nigam Bodh Ghat crematorium", Delhi Congress said. Dikshit had undergone bypass surgeries in the past and had been in and out of hospital recently as she was not well.

'She made noteworthy contribution to Delhi’s development,' PM Modi remembers Sheila Dikshit; condolences pour in

The United States should reject "prejudice" and respect facts instead of vilifying <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/human-rights-watch-report-on-uighurs-full-of-prejudice-says-china-164872">China's record on religious rights</a>, the Communist Party newspaper People's Daily said on Saturday after fresh criticism of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uighur-wives-forced-to-drink-alcohol-and-eat-pork-in-chinas-re-education-camps-214757">China's treatment of ethnic Muslims</a>.&nbsp;

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-government-has-destroyed-graveyard-of-uighur-community-historian-226704">China's treatment of its Uighur minority</a> in the far northwestern region of Xinjiang the "stain of the century" on Thursday. He also accused Beijing of pressuring countries not to attend a US-hosted conference on religious freedom.

Beijing has been accused of persecuting Uighurs, with at least a million believed to be detained in what China insists are vocational centres aimed at reducing the spread of extremism.&nbsp;

But the People`s Daily said China respected religious rights and accused some in the United States of having "ulterior motives" and using religion as a pretext to vilify China.&nbsp;

"They even use so-called freedom of religious belief as an excuse to undermine China`s national harmony and interfere in China`s internal affairs," the editorial said.&nbsp;

It said the critics "know nothing about the real situation" in Xinjiang, and the vocational training system had already become an effective way of protecting the region`s population from terrorism and extremism.

An open letter signed by dozens of scholars and religious officials from the region has accused Pompeo of making "false accusations" about the treatment of Uighur Muslims.

The letter, published by the Xinjiang government`s official website late on Friday, said there was "no evidence" to show China was trying to destroy Uighur culture or religion, and urged Pompeo to "stop fabricating lies and slanders about Xinjiang".&nbsp;

Earlier this month, nearly two dozen countries called on China to halt its mass detention of Uighurs in Xinjiang, the first such joint move on the issue at the UN&nbsp;Human Rights Council.&nbsp;

The United States should reject "prejudice" and respect facts instead of vilifying China's record on religious rights, the Communist Party newspaper People's Daily said on Saturday after fresh criticism of China's treatment of ethnic Muslims.

The United States should reject "prejudice" and respect facts instead of vilifying China's record on religious rights, the Communist Party newspaper People's Daily said on Saturday after fresh criticism of China's treatment of ethnic Muslims. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo branded China's treatment of its Uighur minority in the far northwestern region of Xinjiang the "stain of the century" on Thursday. He also accused Beijing of pressuring countries not to attend a US-hosted conference on religious freedom. Beijing has been accused of persecuting Uighurs, with at least a million believed to be detained in what China insists are vocational centres aimed at reducing the spread of extremism. But the People`s Daily said China respected religious rights and accused some in the United States of having "ulterior motives" and using religion as a pretext to vilify China. "They even use so-called freedom of religious belief as an excuse to undermine China`s national harmony and interfere in China`s internal affairs," the editorial said. It said the critics "know nothing about the real situation" in Xinjiang, and the vocational training system had already become an effective way of protecting the region`s population from terrorism and extremism. An open letter signed by dozens of scholars and religious officials from the region has accused Pompeo of making "false accusations" about the treatment of Uighur Muslims. The letter, published by the Xinjiang government`s official website late on Friday, said there was "no evidence" to show China was trying to destroy Uighur culture or religion, and urged Pompeo to "stop fabricating lies and slanders about Xinjiang". Earlier this month, nearly two dozen countries called on China to halt its mass detention of Uighurs in Xinjiang, the first such joint move on the issue at the UN Human Rights Council.

US should reject 'prejudice' on China religious rights: State media

Thousands gathered in Hong Kong on Saturday for a pro-government rally to call for an end to violence, after a wave of protests against an extradition bill triggered clashes between police and activists and plunged the city into crisis.&nbsp;

The rally comes a day ahead of yet another mass protest planned against the government and its handling of the now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China for trial.&nbsp;

Hong Kong`s embattled leader, Carrie Lam, has apologised for the turmoil the bill has caused and declared it "dead", although opponents say nothing short of its full withdrawal will do.&nbsp;

Demonstrators, mostly middle-aged or older, braved heavy rain and thunderstorms to gather at the city's Tamar Park, next to the Legislative Council which protesters stormed and raided on July 1 - the 22nd anniversary of Hong Kong's handover from British to Chinese rule.&nbsp;

"Violence is intolerant. We are distressed about our home and we should absolutely stand out to support Hong Kong police, to maintain stability and rule of law in the society," said Tsol Pui, 85, president of Hong Kong Veterans' Home.

Two initially peaceful protests last weekend degenerated into running skirmishes between baton-wielding riot police and activists, resulting in scores of injuries and more than 40 arrests.&nbsp;

The fights followed larger outbreaks of violence between police and protesters in central Hong Kong last month, with police forcing back activists with tear gas, rubber bullets and bean-bag rounds.

Activists and human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into what they describe as excessive use of force by police.

The protesters are also demanding the word "riot" be withdrawn from the government`s description of demonstrations and the unconditional release of those arrested.&nbsp;

What started as protests over the extradition bill has now morphed into demands for greater democracy, the resignation of leader Lam, and even curbing the number of mainland Chinese tourists to Hong Kong.

Under the terms of the handover from Britain in 1997, Hong Kong was allowed to retain extensive freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland under a "one country, two systems" formula, including an independent judiciary and right to protest.

But for many Hong Kong residents, the extradition bill is the latest step in a relentless march toward mainland control.

Other anti-government protests are planned over coming weekends in areas including Mong Kok, a gritty working-class district across the harbour from the financial centre, and in Tseung Kwan O and Sham Shui Po, one of the city`s poorest areas.

Opponents of the extradition bill fear it would leave Hong Kong people at the mercy of Chinese courts, where human rights are not guaranteed, and have voiced concerns over the city`s much-cherished rule of law.

Thousands gathered in Hong Kong on Saturday for a pro-government rally to call for an end to violence, after a wave of protests against an extradition bill triggered clashes between police and activists and plunged the city into crisis.

Thousands gathered in Hong Kong on Saturday for a pro-government rally to call for an end to violence, after a wave of protests against an extradition bill triggered clashes between police and activists and plunged the city into crisis. The rally comes a day ahead of yet another mass protest planned against the government and its handling of the now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed people in Hong Kong to be sent to mainland China for trial. Hong Kong`s embattled leader, Carrie Lam, has apologised for the turmoil the bill has caused and declared it "dead", although opponents say nothing short of its full withdrawal will do. Demonstrators, mostly middle-aged or older, braved heavy rain and thunderstorms to gather at the city's Tamar Park, next to the Legislative Council which protesters stormed and raided on July 1 - the 22nd anniversary of Hong Kong's handover from British to Chinese rule. "Violence is intolerant. We are distressed about our home and we should absolutely stand out to support Hong Kong police, to maintain stability and rule of law in the society," said Tsol Pui, 85, president of Hong Kong Veterans' Home. Two initially peaceful protests last weekend degenerated into running skirmishes between baton-wielding riot police and activists, resulting in scores of injuries and more than 40 arrests. The fights followed larger outbreaks of violence between police and protesters in central Hong Kong last month, with police forcing back activists with tear gas, rubber bullets and bean-bag rounds. Activists and human rights groups have called for an independent investigation into what they describe as excessive use of force by police. The protesters are also demanding the word "riot" be withdrawn from the government`s description of demonstrations and the unconditional release of those arrested. What started as protests over the extradition bill has now morphed into demands for greater democracy, the resignation of leader Lam, and even curbing the number of mainland Chinese tourists to Hong Kong. Under the terms of the handover from Britain in 1997, Hong Kong was allowed to retain extensive freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland under a "one country, two systems" formula, including an independent judiciary and right to protest. But for many Hong Kong residents, the extradition bill is the latest step in a relentless march toward mainland control. Other anti-government protests are planned over coming weekends in areas including Mong Kok, a gritty working-class district across the harbour from the financial centre, and in Tseung Kwan O and Sham Shui Po, one of the city`s poorest areas. Opponents of the extradition bill fear it would leave Hong Kong people at the mercy of Chinese courts, where human rights are not guaranteed, and have voiced concerns over the city`s much-cherished rule of law.

Government supporters rally in Hong Kong to seek end to violence

In a<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/in-a-bid-to-cut-costs-imran-khan-expresses-wish-to-stay-at-ambassadors-home-during-us-visit-233951"> bid to cut costs with the struggling economy</a> of&nbsp;his country, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to take Qatar Airways flight to the US.

The prime minister had so far used PAK1 for his foreign visits. PAK1 is the official airplane used by Pakistan prime ministers.

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PM Imran Khan will fly to Washington by Qatar Airways.
— Naeem ul Haque (@naeemul_haque) <a href="https://twitter.com/naeemul_haque/status/1151856958737133576?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 18, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Imran's foreign visits so far included two times China trip, three times visit to Saudi Arabia, a once trip to Russia, Qatar and UAE.

Khan used PAK1 for his visits to all these countries.

The PM has also decided to&nbsp;stay at Pakistan House on his visit to the US Capitol.

Pakistan House is the Ambassador's residence in Washington DC.

Imran Khan will visit the US from July 21-24 where he will meet with the Pakistan diaspora.

The Pakistan Prime Minister will meet US President Donald Trump on July 22.

In a bid to cut costs with the struggling economy of his country, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to take Qatar Airways flight to the US. The prime minister had so far used PAK1 for his foreign visits.

In a bid to cut costs with the struggling economy of his country, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan has decided to take Qatar Airways flight to the US. The prime minister had so far used PAK1 for his foreign visits. PAK1 is the official airplane used by Pakistan prime ministers. PM Imran Khan will fly to Washington by Qatar Airways. — Naeem ul Haque (@naeemul_haque) July 18, 2019 × Imran's foreign visits so far included two times China trip, three times visit to Saudi Arabia, a once trip to Russia, Qatar and UAE. Khan used PAK1 for his visits to all these countries. The PM has also decided to stay at Pakistan House on his visit to the US Capitol. Pakistan House is the Ambassador's residence in Washington DC. Imran Khan will visit the US from July 21-24 where he will meet with the Pakistan diaspora. The Pakistan Prime Minister will meet US President Donald Trump on July 22.

Imran Khan's 'cost-cutting' drive; to take Qatar Airways flight to US

Remembering his grandfather and anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela on his 101 birthday, grandson Zwelivelile spoke to WION and said that Mandela&nbsp;will always be remembered as a great freedom fighter who fought for apartheid and ushered for a new democracy.

This year celebrates the 101 birthday of the anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela who became South Africa’s first black president and also won the Nobel Prize. Born on July 18, 1918, his successful struggle against South Africa's apartheid system of racial segregation and discrimination made him a global symbol. To celebrate his birthday, July 18 is celebrated as Nelson Mandela International Day or Mandela Day every year.

When asked about how challenging is it to keep Mandela's legacy, Zwelivelile said, "There's quite a hilarious story about my childhood when my dad used to tease me. There were some street protests and people shouting slogans. I thought they were calling my name Amandla! Then I heard them calling Viva Mandela Viva! I thought I was famous and the family had a nice chuckle about my childhood innocence. I still did not know much about Nelson Mandela the man when I met him as a nine-year-old in Pollsmoor Prison. It was only after he instructed Hellen Joseph in a coded message to educate me about him, the struggle and what he stood for."

Keeping his grandfather's legacy, Zwelivelile said that he is often asked about his grandfather's legacy and the celebration of Mandela day. To this he thinks that such mass outpouring of altruism and philanthropic acts are meritorious in themselves, they are the antithesis of what our global icon stood for. He also said that it was not easy in growing up with his name but whatever his grandfather ingrained it in, we have to serve whenever the nation calls upon us to do so.

Adding the importance of the role of self-sacrifice and long commitment to activities by his grandfather, Zwelivelile feels that the efforts done to restore his legacy should be more. He further suggested that if we truly value the man as a hero and as a giant, we should understand the milieu in which he was born and given rise to the emergence of a generation of men/women in our liberation movement who moulded and shaped the Madiba we know.

Sharing memories of growing up with his grandfather, he said that as a President he was deeply conscious that his walk of freedom did not end with the dawn of democracy as he knew that there were many more hills to climb.

When asked about changes that came after Mandela became president, his grandson said that Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was 76 when he became President in 1994. At that age his character, values and outlook on life had been shaped by decades of struggle. So, principally the man Mandela did not change when he became President. Yes, he had to contend with the challenges of statesmanship which&nbsp;placed a huge burden on him but he bore that with characteristic charm, discipline and his ever-present human touch.

Celebrating his grandfather's birthday, Zwelivelile asks South Africans on this day to recommit to the true essence and meaning of reconciliation that Madiba regarded as the golden standard of building a new future.

He also asks young people to rise for a higher purpose in life and remember the Madiba' day for what he is always known for- an unflinching believe in the propensity, a wavering determination to stand for justice, an unshakable commitment to end human suffering to keep Africa/World a better place for which his grandfather has always worked for.

Remembering his grandfather and anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela on his 101 birthday, grandson Zwelivelile spoke to WION and said that Mandela will always be remembered as a great freedom fighter who fought for apartheid and ushered for a new democracy.

Remembering his grandfather and anti-apartheid hero Nelson Mandela on his 101 birthday, grandson Zwelivelile spoke to WION and said that Mandela will always be remembered as a great freedom fighter who fought for apartheid and ushered for a new democracy. This year celebrates the 101 birthday of the anti-apartheid icon Nelson Mandela who became South Africa’s first black president and also won the Nobel Prize. Born on July 18, 1918, his successful struggle against South Africa's apartheid system of racial segregation and discrimination made him a global symbol. To celebrate his birthday, July 18 is celebrated as Nelson Mandela International Day or Mandela Day every year. When asked about how challenging is it to keep Mandela's legacy, Zwelivelile said, "There's quite a hilarious story about my childhood when my dad used to tease me. There were some street protests and people shouting slogans. I thought they were calling my name Amandla! Then I heard them calling Viva Mandela Viva! I thought I was famous and the family had a nice chuckle about my childhood innocence. I still did not know much about Nelson Mandela the man when I met him as a nine-year-old in Pollsmoor Prison. It was only after he instructed Hellen Joseph in a coded message to educate me about him, the struggle and what he stood for." Keeping his grandfather's legacy, Zwelivelile said that he is often asked about his grandfather's legacy and the celebration of Mandela day. To this he thinks that such mass outpouring of altruism and philanthropic acts are meritorious in themselves, they are the antithesis of what our global icon stood for. He also said that it was not easy in growing up with his name but whatever his grandfather ingrained it in, we have to serve whenever the nation calls upon us to do so. Adding the importance of the role of self-sacrifice and long commitment to activities by his grandfather, Zwelivelile feels that the efforts done to restore his legacy should be more. He further suggested that if we truly value the man as a hero and as a giant, we should understand the milieu in which he was born and given rise to the emergence of a generation of men/women in our liberation movement who moulded and shaped the Madiba we know. Sharing memories of growing up with his grandfather, he said that as a President he was deeply conscious that his walk of freedom did not end with the dawn of democracy as he knew that there were many more hills to climb. When asked about changes that came after Mandela became president, his grandson said that Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was 76 when he became President in 1994. At that age his character, values and outlook on life had been shaped by decades of struggle. So, principally the man Mandela did not change when he became President. Yes, he had to contend with the challenges of statesmanship which placed a huge burden on him but he bore that with characteristic charm, discipline and his ever-present human touch. Celebrating his grandfather's birthday, Zwelivelile asks South Africans on this day to recommit to the true essence and meaning of reconciliation that Madiba regarded as the golden standard of building a new future. He also asks young people to rise for a higher purpose in life and remember the Madiba' day for what he is always known for- an unflinching believe in the propensity, a wavering determination to stand for justice, an unshakable commitment to end human suffering to keep Africa/World a better place for which his grandfather has always worked for.

His fight for freedom cannot end with the dawn of democracy: Grandson Zwelivelile on Mandela's 101 birthday

British MPs on Thursday backed a measure that would frustrate any attempt to force through a no-deal Brexit by suspending parliament, helped by several rebel members of the governing Conservatives.

The measure, which passed by 315 votes to 274, is a major setback for former London mayor Boris Johnson, who is expected to be named prime minister next Wednesday and has said he would be prepared to lead Britain into a no-deal Brexit.

The government had called for MPs to vote against the measure, but 17 Conservative legislators supported it and dozens more abstained, including finance minister Philip Hammond.

"The prime minister is obviously disappointed that a number of ministers failed to vote," a spokesman for PM Theresa May's Downing Street office said.

"No doubt her successor will take this into account when forming their government," he said.

Margot James, a junior government minister for the digital economy, resigned to vote in favour of the law.

The scale of the rebellion within the Conservative Party demonstrates the challenge that Johnson would face if he pursues a hardline Brexit agenda once in power.

Catherine Haddon, from the Institute for Government think-tank, said the vote was "a big show of intent" that did not clearly rule out a suspension of parliament.

Sky News television earlier cited sources close to Johnson saying he could call a new session of parliament, which would require its temporary suspension, in order to prevent MPs from attempting to block a no-deal Brexit.

The vote was on an amendment to legislation relating to Northern Ireland and requires parliament to meet on a regular basis to discuss the progress of talks on restoring the Northern Ireland Assembly, which collapsed in 2017.

The legislation now needs to go to the upper House of Lords for approval.

Hilary Benn, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party who put forward the amendment, said it was important that parliament should be sitting at a "crucial time for our country".

"I don't think we could accept circumstances, if I may coin the phrase, in which we were sent missing in action."

Britain is currently scheduled to leave the European Union on October 31 unless an extension is agreed.

Johnson has said he will push for a new deal with Brussels but would be prepared to lead Britain out of the bloc with no overall agreement in place if not.

Business leaders have warned about the prospect of serious economic disruption in the case of a no-deal Brexit and the government's official forecaster on Thursday warned it could trigger a year-long recession.

British MPs on Thursday backed a measure that would frustrate any attempt to force through a no-deal Brexit by suspending parliament, helped by several rebel members of the governing Conservatives.

British MPs on Thursday backed a measure that would frustrate any attempt to force through a no-deal Brexit by suspending parliament, helped by several rebel members of the governing Conservatives. The measure, which passed by 315 votes to 274, is a major setback for former London mayor Boris Johnson, who is expected to be named prime minister next Wednesday and has said he would be prepared to lead Britain into a no-deal Brexit. The government had called for MPs to vote against the measure, but 17 Conservative legislators supported it and dozens more abstained, including finance minister Philip Hammond. "The prime minister is obviously disappointed that a number of ministers failed to vote," a spokesman for PM Theresa May's Downing Street office said. "No doubt her successor will take this into account when forming their government," he said. Margot James, a junior government minister for the digital economy, resigned to vote in favour of the law. The scale of the rebellion within the Conservative Party demonstrates the challenge that Johnson would face if he pursues a hardline Brexit agenda once in power. Catherine Haddon, from the Institute for Government think-tank, said the vote was "a big show of intent" that did not clearly rule out a suspension of parliament. Sky News television earlier cited sources close to Johnson saying he could call a new session of parliament, which would require its temporary suspension, in order to prevent MPs from attempting to block a no-deal Brexit. The vote was on an amendment to legislation relating to Northern Ireland and requires parliament to meet on a regular basis to discuss the progress of talks on restoring the Northern Ireland Assembly, which collapsed in 2017. The legislation now needs to go to the upper House of Lords for approval. Hilary Benn, an MP from the main opposition Labour Party who put forward the amendment, said it was important that parliament should be sitting at a "crucial time for our country". "I don't think we could accept circumstances, if I may coin the phrase, in which we were sent missing in action." Britain is currently scheduled to leave the European Union on October 31 unless an extension is agreed. Johnson has said he will push for a new deal with Brussels but would be prepared to lead Britain out of the bloc with no overall agreement in place if not. Business leaders have warned about the prospect of serious economic disruption in the case of a no-deal Brexit and the government's official forecaster on Thursday warned it could trigger a year-long recession.

UK lawmakers vote in bid to frustrate no-deal Brexit

Seventeen people were killed and 50 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported.

Five children were among the dead in the accident in Van province near the Iranian border, DHA reported quoting Van governor Mehmet Emin Bilmez.

The agency said the migrants had entered Turkey illegally but the nationalities of the victims was not immediately known.

The governor said there were 67 people on board the minibus which he said had a capacity of 17 to 18 people. Bilmez was quoted by DHA earlier saying the death toll was 15.

Sixteen of the victims were migrants and another was the minibus driver, DHA said.

Images in Turkish media showed the damaged minibus in a field with several rescue workers tending to the injured in Ozalp district close to the border with Iran.

The agency reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle but there were no immediate details on the cause of the accident which took place at 0900 GMT.

Seventeen people were killed and 50 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported. Five children were among the dead in the accident in Van province near the Iranian border, DHA reported quoting Van governor Mehmet Emin Bilmez.

Seventeen people were killed and 50 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported. Five children were among the dead in the accident in Van province near the Iranian border, DHA reported quoting Van governor Mehmet Emin Bilmez. The agency said the migrants had entered Turkey illegally but the nationalities of the victims was not immediately known. The governor said there were 67 people on board the minibus which he said had a capacity of 17 to 18 people. Bilmez was quoted by DHA earlier saying the death toll was 15. Sixteen of the victims were migrants and another was the minibus driver, DHA said. Images in Turkish media showed the damaged minibus in a field with several rescue workers tending to the injured in Ozalp district close to the border with Iran. The agency reported that the driver lost control of the vehicle but there were no immediate details on the cause of the accident which took place at 0900 GMT.

Minibus with migrants overturns in Turkey killing 17

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said.

The assault comes amid a series of peace talks between Washington and the Taliban that both sides say are making progress, but which so far have yielded no reduction in violence in the gruelling Afghan conflict.

Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the afternoon attack in Afghanistan's second-largest city started with a car bomb, then saw gunmen storm the police compound.

"A number of mujahideen equipped with heavy and small arms breached the headquarters and launched their operations inside," he said.

Baheer Ahmadi, the Kandahar governor's spokesman, told AFP that 12 people had been killed, including nine civilians and three police officers. Another 89 were wounded, he added.

Police chief Tadin Khan said the car bomb was followed by two other explosions.

"The fighting is over now. Some vehicles were burnt. Now the Afghan army and US helicopters are hovering in the area," he told AFP.

Hayatullah Hayat, the provincial governor for Kandahar, said Afghan security forces had launched a "clean-up operation" to see if any attackers were remaining.

Pictures on social media showed a huge plume of smoke rising over Kandahar, and Hayat said about six trucks carrying commercial goods had burnt.&nbsp;

The assault comes just one day after two Afghan soldiers -- who were really Taliban operatives -- fatally shot an Afghan colonel in Ghazni province.

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said.

At least 12 people were killed and scores more wounded Thursday when the Taliban attacked a police headquarters in the southern city of Kandahar, officials and the insurgents said. The assault comes amid a series of peace talks between Washington and the Taliban that both sides say are making progress, but which so far have yielded no reduction in violence in the gruelling Afghan conflict. Taliban spokesman Qari Yousuf Ahmadi said the afternoon attack in Afghanistan's second-largest city started with a car bomb, then saw gunmen storm the police compound. "A number of mujahideen equipped with heavy and small arms breached the headquarters and launched their operations inside," he said. Baheer Ahmadi, the Kandahar governor's spokesman, told AFP that 12 people had been killed, including nine civilians and three police officers. Another 89 were wounded, he added. Police chief Tadin Khan said the car bomb was followed by two other explosions. "The fighting is over now. Some vehicles were burnt. Now the Afghan army and US helicopters are hovering in the area," he told AFP. Hayatullah Hayat, the provincial governor for Kandahar, said Afghan security forces had launched a "clean-up operation" to see if any attackers were remaining. Pictures on social media showed a huge plume of smoke rising over Kandahar, and Hayat said about six trucks carrying commercial goods had burnt. The assault comes just one day after two Afghan soldiers -- who were really Taliban operatives -- fatally shot an Afghan colonel in Ghazni province.

At least 12 dead in Taliban attack on Afghan police headquarters

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/appreciate-icjs-decision-not-to-acquit-kulbhushan-jadhav-says-imran-khan-after-icjs-verdict-236784">Prime Minister Imran Khan's government</a> faces mounting pressure as rising prices and tough austerity policies under Pakistan's latest bailout from the International Monetary Fund are squeezing the middle class that helped carry it to power.

Rashid Mehmood owns a small shop selling children's clothing in Aabpara, the oldest market in the capital, Islamabad. He says he has faced a critical decline in sales over the past year, pointing to Khan's election last August.&nbsp;

The last six months had been "particularly harsh", he said.

"Do you see any customers coming into my store?" he asked as he stood in his empty shop, decorated with brightly coloured leggings and dresses.

He said had not made a sale in a week.

In normal times, Mehmood's store serves the kind of middle-class shoppers who in recent years have been behind an import-led consumption splurge that propped up growth and helped hide the problems of an economy riddled with inefficiency and without a strong export base.

Fed by low-interest rates, heavy borrowing and an over-valued rupee currency that, for a time at least, allowed imports to pour in, consumption gave an illusion of growth that has now been replaced by a severe economic hangover.

Like so many of its predecessors, Khan's government, which came to power vowing to root out corruption and create millions of jobs, has been forced to turn to the IMF to prevent a balance-of-payments crisis as the money runs out.&nbsp;

Economic growth, which reached 5.5 per cent in the fiscal year to June 2018, is expected to slow to 2.4 per cent this financial year, according to IMF estimates, barely enough to keep pace with the growth in a population that now numbers 208 million.

The rupee has lost about a quarter of its value in a slide that has driven up fuel costs and helped push a relentless increase in prices for food and other necessities.

The central bank, which this week raised interest rates to 13.25 per cent, expects inflation to average as much as 12 per cent this year.

As ever, the poorest have been hit hardest. But the squeeze on middle-income households poses a special challenge for Khan, who has enjoyed wide support among an urban middle class that has grown over the past two decades as poverty levels have come down from two-thirds of the population to about a quarter.

Further along in Aabpara market, Abida Jahan has come with her family from Haripur town, a couple of hours drive away, after the food-processing factory her husband worked in was shut down. They are looking for a gift to celebrate their daughter's 13th birthday.

However, the surge in prices has meant that they will likely go home empty handed.

"This is the same government that promised to decrease oil prices to 45 rupees," says Abida's husband, recalling that Khan's PTI party had promised to halve the price of fuel and build a new welfare state.

Shopping malls

Pakistan's growing middle class has helped reshape its urban landscape, symbolizing a promise of upward mobility.

Shopping malls with foreign retail brands and fast-food franchises have proliferated in recent years, serving a middle class who "define themselves by what they can buy and where they can eat", says Ammara Maqsood, author of The New Pakistani Middle Class.

In the first decade of the century, economic growth fuelled by privatisation led families to new prosperity marked by their ability to buy a motorbike, rent a home or send their children to private school.

Now businesses supplying consumers with everything from mobile phones to clothing, motorbikes, and cars bought on hire purchase are feeling the squeeze.

"It's a multiple effect," said Fatima Azim, chief executive of Azim Motors, which has a joint venture with Japanese car maker Suzuki Motors supplying small cars and motorbikes to mainly lower-middle-class customers.

"Income has not increased at all so no matter what, if they are going to a shopping mall or wherever, they are being affected," she said.

The government has placed the blame squarely on the corruption of past governments, notably that of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who championed big infrastructure projects that spurred growth but drained currency reserves.

Sharif is now serving a seven-year sentence for a corruption conviction he said was politically motivated.

How convincing the government's argument will be as the crisis bites remains to be seen and a nationwide strike by wholesalers and traders last weekend gave some taste of the growing unhappiness.

"Let's be honest, it feels like we are the ones who are being punished for forcing out the crooks," says Fawad Subhani, who owns a domestic appliance store in Islamabad.

"They were thieves, but they were thieves who also had money and friends with money."

Prime Minister Imran Khan's government faces mounting pressure as rising prices and tough austerity policies under Pakistan's latest bailout from the International Monetary Fund are squeezing the middle class that helped carry it to power.

Prime Minister Imran Khan's government faces mounting pressure as rising prices and tough austerity policies under Pakistan's latest bailout from the International Monetary Fund are squeezing the middle class that helped carry it to power. Rashid Mehmood owns a small shop selling children's clothing in Aabpara, the oldest market in the capital, Islamabad. He says he has faced a critical decline in sales over the past year, pointing to Khan's election last August. The last six months had been "particularly harsh", he said. "Do you see any customers coming into my store?" he asked as he stood in his empty shop, decorated with brightly coloured leggings and dresses. He said had not made a sale in a week. In normal times, Mehmood's store serves the kind of middle-class shoppers who in recent years have been behind an import-led consumption splurge that propped up growth and helped hide the problems of an economy riddled with inefficiency and without a strong export base. Fed by low-interest rates, heavy borrowing and an over-valued rupee currency that, for a time at least, allowed imports to pour in, consumption gave an illusion of growth that has now been replaced by a severe economic hangover. Like so many of its predecessors, Khan's government, which came to power vowing to root out corruption and create millions of jobs, has been forced to turn to the IMF to prevent a balance-of-payments crisis as the money runs out. Economic growth, which reached 5.5 per cent in the fiscal year to June 2018, is expected to slow to 2.4 per cent this financial year, according to IMF estimates, barely enough to keep pace with the growth in a population that now numbers 208 million. The rupee has lost about a quarter of its value in a slide that has driven up fuel costs and helped push a relentless increase in prices for food and other necessities. The central bank, which this week raised interest rates to 13.25 per cent, expects inflation to average as much as 12 per cent this year. As ever, the poorest have been hit hardest. But the squeeze on middle-income households poses a special challenge for Khan, who has enjoyed wide support among an urban middle class that has grown over the past two decades as poverty levels have come down from two-thirds of the population to about a quarter. Further along in Aabpara market, Abida Jahan has come with her family from Haripur town, a couple of hours drive away, after the food-processing factory her husband worked in was shut down. They are looking for a gift to celebrate their daughter's 13th birthday. However, the surge in prices has meant that they will likely go home empty handed. "This is the same government that promised to decrease oil prices to 45 rupees," says Abida's husband, recalling that Khan's PTI party had promised to halve the price of fuel and build a new welfare state. Shopping malls Pakistan's growing middle class has helped reshape its urban landscape, symbolizing a promise of upward mobility. Shopping malls with foreign retail brands and fast-food franchises have proliferated in recent years, serving a middle class who "define themselves by what they can buy and where they can eat", says Ammara Maqsood, author of The New Pakistani Middle Class. In the first decade of the century, economic growth fuelled by privatisation led families to new prosperity marked by their ability to buy a motorbike, rent a home or send their children to private school. Now businesses supplying consumers with everything from mobile phones to clothing, motorbikes, and cars bought on hire purchase are feeling the squeeze. "It's a multiple effect," said Fatima Azim, chief executive of Azim Motors, which has a joint venture with Japanese car maker Suzuki Motors supplying small cars and motorbikes to mainly lower-middle-class customers. "Income has not increased at all so no matter what, if they are going to a shopping mall or wherever, they are being affected," she said. The government has placed the blame squarely on the corruption of past governments, notably that of former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who championed big infrastructure projects that spurred growth but drained currency reserves. Sharif is now serving a seven-year sentence for a corruption conviction he said was politically motivated. How convincing the government's argument will be as the crisis bites remains to be seen and a nationwide strike by wholesalers and traders last weekend gave some taste of the growing unhappiness. "Let's be honest, it feels like we are the ones who are being punished for forcing out the crooks," says Fawad Subhani, who owns a domestic appliance store in Islamabad. "They were thieves, but they were thieves who also had money and friends with money."

Pakistan price squeeze hits middle class as well as poor

Documents regarding hush-money payments by Donald Trump's former personal lawyer <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-investigators-sought-ex-trump-lawyer-michael-cohens-emails-months-before-raids-204389&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjQpOyLoL7jAhVc_XMBHQawCkUQFjAAegQIARAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2LK3X2NP6vmnlCjjregG1m">Michael Cohen</a> to a porn star and a Playboy model who said they had sexual encounters with the president are set to be made public on Thursday, offering a window into a probe that began last year and landed Cohen in prison.

US District Judge William Pauley in Manhattan on Wednesday ordered that the material, used by prosecutors to obtain a 2018 search warrant for Cohen's home and office, must be unsealed by 11 am (1500 GMT). The judge found there was no reason to keep the documents secret after prosecutors told him that their investigation into the payments had ended.

The end of the investigation suggests that no one else is likely to face criminal charges in connection with the payments.

Cohen, 52, pleaded guilty in August 2018 to violating campaign finance law by directing payments of $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels and $150,000 to Playboy model Karen McDougal to avert a scandal shortly before the 2016 presidential election. Both women have said they had sexual encounters with Trump more than a decade ago, and that the money was meant to buy their silence. Trump has denied the encounters.

"The campaign finance violations discussed in the materials are a matter of national importance," Pauley wrote. "Now that the government's investigation into those violations has concluded, it is time that every American has an opportunity to scrutinize the materials."

Cohen, who was once <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-votes-to-set-aside-impeachment-resolution-against-trump-236765&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjagKOooL7jAhWq4HMBHQpVCykQFjAGegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3GZcRl3yAsoSsachx945Ie">Trump</a>'s self-described "fixer," began serving a three-year prison sentence in May for his campaign finance violations and other crimes, including making false statements to a bank and tax evasion.

Pauley had ordered many of the search warrant material about Cohen's personal business dealings unsealed earlier this year, but allowed the hush-money documents to remain secret because an investigation involving the payments was still in progress.

Cohen pleaded guilty last November to separate charges brought by the office of former Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller, who was investigating contacts between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia. Cohen admitted he lied to Congress about the extent of contacts between Trump and Russians during the campaign.

Documents regarding hush-money payments by Donald Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen to a porn star and a Playboy model who said they had sexual encounters with the president are set to be made public on Thursday, offering a window into a probe that began last year and landed Cohen in prison.

Documents regarding hush-money payments by Donald Trump's former personal lawyer Michael Cohen to a porn star and a Playboy model who said they had sexual encounters with the president are set to be made public on Thursday, offering a window into a probe that began last year and landed Cohen in prison. US District Judge William Pauley in Manhattan on Wednesday ordered that the material, used by prosecutors to obtain a 2018 search warrant for Cohen's home and office, must be unsealed by 11 am (1500 GMT). The judge found there was no reason to keep the documents secret after prosecutors told him that their investigation into the payments had ended. The end of the investigation suggests that no one else is likely to face criminal charges in connection with the payments. Cohen, 52, pleaded guilty in August 2018 to violating campaign finance law by directing payments of $130,000 to adult film star Stormy Daniels and $150,000 to Playboy model Karen McDougal to avert a scandal shortly before the 2016 presidential election. Both women have said they had sexual encounters with Trump more than a decade ago, and that the money was meant to buy their silence. Trump has denied the encounters. "The campaign finance violations discussed in the materials are a matter of national importance," Pauley wrote. "Now that the government's investigation into those violations has concluded, it is time that every American has an opportunity to scrutinize the materials." Cohen, who was once Trump's self-described "fixer," began serving a three-year prison sentence in May for his campaign finance violations and other crimes, including making false statements to a bank and tax evasion. Pauley had ordered many of the search warrant material about Cohen's personal business dealings unsealed earlier this year, but allowed the hush-money documents to remain secret because an investigation involving the payments was still in progress. Cohen pleaded guilty last November to separate charges brought by the office of former Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller, who was investigating contacts between Trump's 2016 presidential campaign and Russia. Cohen admitted he lied to Congress about the extent of contacts between Trump and Russians during the campaign.

Documents on Trump ex-lawyer's porn star hush payment to be released

The World Health Organization has declared <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-declares-ebola-outbreak-is-international-health-emergency-but-not-global-threat-236767">Congo's Ebola outbreak an international health emergency</a>, after the virus threatened to spread to a major city and into neighbouring countries.

The response has been hampered by frequent militia violence and low public trust. Below is a timeline of the latest Ebola epidemic.

August 1 2018:

Congo health ministry declares four cases in the eastern town of Mangina, 100 km from the Ugandan border in a province beset by militia violence. It marks the start of Congo's 10th Ebola outbreak since 1976.

The announcement comes eight days after another Ebola outbreak in western Congo was successfully contained with the use of an experimental new vaccine from Merck.

WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says he is confident in Congo's ability to contain the virus. WHO sends staff and supplies.

August 2 2018:

The WHO says the virus is likely spread over tens of kilometres and poses a high regional risk given its proximity to borders.

Health officials in Mangina rush to educate the public about the risks of Ebola and how to stop its spread.

Ebola identified as the deadliest Zaire strain, for which however an experimental vaccine exists.

August 4 2018:

Congo health ministry says outbreak has likely killed 33 people. Suspected cases are detected in North Kivu province, where Mangina is located, and neighbouring Ituri province.

August 8 2018:

Congo and WHO begin vaccinating health workers. 43 people are believed to have been infected including 36 who have died. 900 contacts are identified for monitoring.

August 17 2018:

Militia violence prevents aid workers from reaching some potential cases. Over 2,000 people have been potentially exposed to the virus.

September 5, 2018:

First Ebola death recorded in trading hub of Butembo, a city of almost a million with links to Uganda. Death toll hits 85.

September 25:

The WHO says it is "extremely concerned" about the outbreak as the death toll reaches 100, two days after militias kill 12 civilians in the town of Beni, near the outbreak's epicentre.

October 17, 2018:

WHO emergency committee falls short of declaring a public health emergency of international concern, but warns it will worsen unless the response is stepped up. Death toll hits 139.

November&nbsp;2 2018:

Uganda starts vaccinating health workers.

November 29, 2018:

Outbreak becomes the second biggest ever, with 426 cases and 245 deaths, the health ministry says. The West Africa outbreak in 2013-16 killed over 11,000 people.

February 24-27, 2019:

Two MSF Ebola treatment centres are attacked by armed assailants and set on fire.

March 25, 2019:

Ebola cases hit 1,000, five days after the virus is detected in Bunia, a city with close to 1 million people.

April 12, 2019:

WHO says the outbreak still does not constitute an international emergency.

May 3, 2019:

The death toll rises above 1,000. Attacks on treatment centres by armed groups continue.

May 28, 2019:

A mob in Vusahiro village kill an Ebola health worker and loot a clinic. WHO says between Jan and early May, there were 42 attacks on health facilities, with 85 workers either injured or killed.

June 4, 2019:

Ebola cases top 2,000 as the rate of new cases triples.

June 11-12, 2019:

Uganda confirms its first case, a 5-year-old Congolese child who dies the next day. A day later, two new cases are reported.

July 14, 2019:

First case detected in Goma, with a population of more than one million. The patient, a priest, is pronounced dead by authorities two days later.

July 17, 2019:

WHO declares outbreak an international health emergency.

The World Health Organization has declared Congo's Ebola outbreak an international health emergency, after the virus threatened to spread to a major city and into neighbouring countries.

The World Health Organization has declared Congo's Ebola outbreak an international health emergency, after the virus threatened to spread to a major city and into neighbouring countries. The response has been hampered by frequent militia violence and low public trust. Below is a timeline of the latest Ebola epidemic. August 1 2018: Congo health ministry declares four cases in the eastern town of Mangina, 100 km from the Ugandan border in a province beset by militia violence. It marks the start of Congo's 10th Ebola outbreak since 1976. The announcement comes eight days after another Ebola outbreak in western Congo was successfully contained with the use of an experimental new vaccine from Merck. WHO head Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says he is confident in Congo's ability to contain the virus. WHO sends staff and supplies. August 2 2018: The WHO says the virus is likely spread over tens of kilometres and poses a high regional risk given its proximity to borders. Health officials in Mangina rush to educate the public about the risks of Ebola and how to stop its spread. Ebola identified as the deadliest Zaire strain, for which however an experimental vaccine exists. August 4 2018: Congo health ministry says outbreak has likely killed 33 people. Suspected cases are detected in North Kivu province, where Mangina is located, and neighbouring Ituri province. August 8 2018: Congo and WHO begin vaccinating health workers. 43 people are believed to have been infected including 36 who have died. 900 contacts are identified for monitoring. August 17 2018: Militia violence prevents aid workers from reaching some potential cases. Over 2,000 people have been potentially exposed to the virus. September 5, 2018: First Ebola death recorded in trading hub of Butembo, a city of almost a million with links to Uganda. Death toll hits 85. September 25: The WHO says it is "extremely concerned" about the outbreak as the death toll reaches 100, two days after militias kill 12 civilians in the town of Beni, near the outbreak's epicentre. October 17, 2018: WHO emergency committee falls short of declaring a public health emergency of international concern, but warns it will worsen unless the response is stepped up. Death toll hits 139. November 2 2018: Uganda starts vaccinating health workers. November 29, 2018: Outbreak becomes the second biggest ever, with 426 cases and 245 deaths, the health ministry says. The West Africa outbreak in 2013-16 killed over 11,000 people. February 24-27, 2019: Two MSF Ebola treatment centres are attacked by armed assailants and set on fire. March 25, 2019: Ebola cases hit 1,000, five days after the virus is detected in Bunia, a city with close to 1 million people. April 12, 2019: WHO says the outbreak still does not constitute an international emergency. May 3, 2019: The death toll rises above 1,000. Attacks on treatment centres by armed groups continue. May 28, 2019: A mob in Vusahiro village kill an Ebola health worker and loot a clinic. WHO says between Jan and early May, there were 42 attacks on health facilities, with 85 workers either injured or killed. June 4, 2019: Ebola cases top 2,000 as the rate of new cases triples. June 11-12, 2019: Uganda confirms its first case, a 5-year-old Congolese child who dies the next day. A day later, two new cases are reported. July 14, 2019: First case detected in Goma, with a population of more than one million. The patient, a priest, is pronounced dead by authorities two days later. July 17, 2019: WHO declares outbreak an international health emergency.

Timeline: How a Congo Ebola outbreak became a global concern

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/appalling-arson-attack-on-japanese-animation-studio-kills-at-least-33-236930">Arson attack on Japanese animation studio kills at least 33</a>

A man shouted "die" as he doused an animation studio with fuel and set it ablaze in Japan on Thursday, public broadcaster NHK said, killing at least 33 people in the&nbsp;nation's worst mass murder&nbsp;in nearly two decades.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seized-foreign-tanker-in-strait-of-hormuz-iran-236898">Seized 'foreign tanker' in Strait of Hormuz: Iran</a>

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Thursday they had detained a "foreign tanker" and its crew for allegedly smuggling fuel in the Gulf. The tanker was seized on Sunday "south of the (Iranian) island of Larak" in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the force's Sepahnews website said.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/pakistan-reading-a-different-verdict-on-kulbhushan-jadhav-it-does-not-have-patience-to-read-mea-236899">Pakistan reading a different verdict on Kulbhushan Jadhav, it does not have patience to read: MEA</a>

As Pak&nbsp;PM Imran tired to give a "postive spin"&nbsp;to the International Court of Justice(ICJ) verdict on Kulbushan Jadhav, India slammed Pakistan's stance asserting that Pakistan has been reading from a different verdict.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/minibus-with-migrants-overturns-in-turkey-killing-15-report-236904">15 migrants killed in Turkey after minibus overturns; nationality unknown</a>

Fifteen people were killed and 28 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/former-pakistan-prime-minister-shahid-khaqan-abbasi-arrested-in-lng-scam-236867">Former Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi arrested in LNG scam&nbsp;</a>

Former Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi&nbsp;has been arrested by Pakistan's corruption watchdog, National Accountability Bureau (NAB), news agency ANI reported citing Pak media.

Arson attack on Japanese animation studio kills at least 33 A man shouted "die" as he doused an animation studio with fuel and set it ablaze in Japan on Thursday, public broadcaster NHK said, killing at least 33 people in the nation's worst mass murder in nearly two decades.

Arson attack on Japanese animation studio kills at least 33 A man shouted "die" as he doused an animation studio with fuel and set it ablaze in Japan on Thursday, public broadcaster NHK said, killing at least 33 people in the nation's worst mass murder in nearly two decades. Seized 'foreign tanker' in Strait of Hormuz: Iran Iran's Revolutionary Guards said Thursday they had detained a "foreign tanker" and its crew for allegedly smuggling fuel in the Gulf. The tanker was seized on Sunday "south of the (Iranian) island of Larak" in the strategic Strait of Hormuz, the force's Sepahnews website said. Pakistan reading a different verdict on Kulbhushan Jadhav, it does not have patience to read: MEA As Pak PM Imran tired to give a "postive spin" to the International Court of Justice(ICJ) verdict on Kulbushan Jadhav, India slammed Pakistan's stance asserting that Pakistan has been reading from a different verdict. 15 migrants killed in Turkey after minibus overturns; nationality unknown Fifteen people were killed and 28 wounded after a minibus carrying migrants overturned in eastern Turkey on Thursday, the private news agency DHA reported. Former Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi arrested in LNG scam Former Pakistan Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi has been arrested by Pakistan's corruption watchdog, National Accountability Bureau (NAB), news agency ANI reported citing Pak media.

News brief: Big stories of the day

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