The leader of Al-Qaeda's Yemeni affiliate has been under arrest for several months, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday, in what will be seen as a huge breakthrough in the fight against the global jihadist threat.

The document said Khalid Batarfi, the leader of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) for just under a year, was arrested and his deputy, Saad Atef al-Awlaqi, died during an "operation in Ghayda City, Al-Mahrah Governorate, in October."

The report&nbsp;filed to the Security Council from a UN monitoring team specializing in extremist groups -- is the first official confirmation of Batarfi's arrest following unverified reports.

The wide-ranging UN assessment, summarizing global potential jihadist threats, did not disclose the terrorist's whereabouts or reveal any further details of the October operation.&nbsp;

But the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors the online activity of jihadist organisations, noted "unconfirmed reports" in October that Batarfi had been arrested by Yemeni security forces and then handed to Saudi Arabia.

AQAP revealed it had appointed Batarfi, believed to be in his early 40s, as its leader in February 2020 following the death of his predecessor Qassim al-Rimi in a US airstrike in Yemen.

Batarfi, who was designated a global terrorist by the US State Department in 2018, has appeared in numerous AQAP videos over recent years, according to SITE, and appeared to have been Rimi's deputy and group spokesman.

Washington considers AQAP to be the worldwide jihadist network's most dangerous branch, and has waged a long-running drone war against the leaders of the group.

AQAP claimed responsibility for the 2019 mass shooting at a US naval base in Florida, in which a Saudi air force officer killed three American sailors.

It also said it was behind the 2009 'pants bomb' plot, in which an explosive device failed to detonate on a Northwest Airlines flight as it approached the US city of Detroit on Christmas Day.

where a Nigerian man trained in Yemen tried to detonate an explosive device on a plane as it approached the US city of Detroit.

The Sunni extremist group thrived in the chaos of years of civil war between Yemen's Saudi-backed government and Shiite Huthi rebels.

Rimi had himself succeeded Nasir al-Wuhayshi, who was killed in a US drone strike in Yemen in June 2015.

- 'Dissentions and desertions' - 
AQAP has carried out operations against both the Huthis and government forces as well as sporadic attacks abroad, including on the offices of the French satirical publication Charlie Hebdo in 2015.

But analysts say its abilities on the ground have dwindled, although it still inspires attacks carried out by "lone wolf" jihadists or former operatives.

Yemen has been wracked by conflict since 2015, when a Saudi-led coalition intervened after the Iran-backed Huthis seized control of the capital Sanaa.

The conflict has since killed tens of thousands of people, relief agencies say, with 80 percent of the population surviving on aid in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis.

President Joe Biden earlier Thursday ended US backing for the war in his first major speech on foreign affairs since entering the White House last month.

He said the United States would end all support including connected arms sales for Riyadh and vowed support for UN efforts to reach a ceasefire and revive peace talks between the government and Huthi rebels.

AQAP, which has not acknowledged Batarfi's arrest, extols the virtues of "martyrdom" and the rare capture of one of its senior operatives alive will be seen as an embarrassing setback.&nbsp;

"In addition to leadership losses, AQAP is suffering an erosion of its ranks caused by dissentions and desertions, led primarily by one of Batarfi's ex-lieutenants, Abu Omar al-Nahdi," the UN report states.&nbsp;

The document covers numerous potential security threats around the world and, in one passage, says that no UN member state has been able to confirm reports of the death from natural causes of al Qaeda's leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in October.&nbsp;

It also warns that "a rash of pre-planned (jihadist) attacks may occur" around the world once restrictions put in place to stem the coronavirus pandemic are lifted.

The leader of Al-Qaeda's Yemeni affiliate has been under arrest for several months, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday, in what will be seen as a huge breakthrough in the fight against the global jihadist threat.

The leader of Al-Qaeda's Yemeni affiliate has been under arrest for several months, according to a United Nations report released on Thursday, in what will be seen as a huge breakthrough in the fight against the global jihadist threat. The document said Khalid Batarfi, the leader of Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) for just under a year, was arrested and his deputy, Saad Atef al-Awlaqi, died during an "operation in Ghayda City, Al-Mahrah Governorate, in October." The report filed to the Security Council from a UN monitoring team specializing in extremist groups -- is the first official confirmation of Batarfi's arrest following unverified reports. The wide-ranging UN assessment, summarizing global potential jihadist threats, did not disclose the terrorist's whereabouts or reveal any further details of the October operation. But the SITE Intelligence Group, which monitors the online activity of jihadist organisations, noted "unconfirmed reports" in October that Batarfi had been arrested by Yemeni security forces and then handed to Saudi Arabia. AQAP revealed it had appointed Batarfi, believed to be in his early 40s, as its leader in February 2020 following the death of his predecessor Qassim al-Rimi in a US airstrike in Yemen. Batarfi, who was designated a global terrorist by the US State Department in 2018, has appeared in numerous AQAP videos over recent years, according to SITE, and appeared to have been Rimi's deputy and group spokesman. Washington considers AQAP to be the worldwide jihadist network's most dangerous branch, and has waged a long-running drone war against the leaders of the group. AQAP claimed responsibility for the 2019 mass shooting at a US naval base in Florida, in which a Saudi air force officer killed three American sailors. It also said it was behind the 2009 'pants bomb' plot, in which an explosive device failed to detonate on a Northwest Airlines flight as it approached the US city of Detroit on Christmas Day. where a Nigerian man trained in Yemen tried to detonate an explosive device on a plane as it approached the US city of Detroit. The Sunni extremist group thrived in the chaos of years of civil war between Yemen's Saudi-backed government and Shiite Huthi rebels. Rimi had himself succeeded Nasir al-Wuhayshi, who was killed in a US drone strike in Yemen in June 2015. - 'Dissentions and desertions' - AQAP has carried out operations against both the Huthis and government forces as well as sporadic attacks abroad, including on the offices of the French satirical publication Charlie Hebdo in 2015. But analysts say its abilities on the ground have dwindled, although it still inspires attacks carried out by "lone wolf" jihadists or former operatives. Yemen has been wracked by conflict since 2015, when a Saudi-led coalition intervened after the Iran-backed Huthis seized control of the capital Sanaa. The conflict has since killed tens of thousands of people, relief agencies say, with 80 percent of the population surviving on aid in what the UN calls the world's worst humanitarian crisis. President Joe Biden earlier Thursday ended US backing for the war in his first major speech on foreign affairs since entering the White House last month. He said the United States would end all support including connected arms sales for Riyadh and vowed support for UN efforts to reach a ceasefire and revive peace talks between the government and Huthi rebels. AQAP, which has not acknowledged Batarfi's arrest, extols the virtues of "martyrdom" and the rare capture of one of its senior operatives alive will be seen as an embarrassing setback. "In addition to leadership losses, AQAP is suffering an erosion of its ranks caused by dissentions and desertions, led primarily by one of Batarfi's ex-lieutenants, Abu Omar al-Nahdi," the UN report states. The document covers numerous potential security threats around the world and, in one passage, says that no UN member state has been able to confirm reports of the death from natural causes of al Qaeda's leader Ayman al-Zawahiri in October. It also warns that "a rash of pre-planned (jihadist) attacks may occur" around the world once restrictions put in place to stem the coronavirus pandemic are lifted.

Al-Qaeda's leader in Yemen Khalid Batarfi under arrest: UN report

According to Japan's health ministry, the number of COVID-19 infections in Tokyo may have jumped by nine-fold since last summer after anti-body tests were conducted as the country prepares to host the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/olympics-will-happen-however-coronavirus-evolves-tokyo-2020-chief-360819">Olympic </a>games in July.

Watch:

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The health ministry in a report said testing on people in Tokyo had revealed that 0.91 per cent had antibodies to the virus, compared with about 0.1 per cent in a similar study in June.

There was also witnessed spike in antibody rates in Osaka&nbsp;and Miyagi Prefecture.

Japan had earlier imposed a one-month emergency as the number of coronavirus cases surged, nine other areas including capital Tokoy was also put under restriction. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has approved the extension of the state of emergency until March 7.

"Hospitalisation will remain high for some time to come, that is why we have to continue with these measures," the Japan PM said, adding, "each and every one of us needs to change the way we act if we are to contain the virus's spread." However, PM Suga said the restrictions will be lifted before March 7 in prefectures where the virus situation improves.

Japan's government has insisted the Olympic games will go ahead as planned in July after it was postponed last year as the pandemic took hold worldwide.

The country's Parliament had passed a new law strengthening enforcement of its virus restrictions which included fine on bars and restaurants which defy closure request with just five months left for the pandemic-postponed summer Olympics in Tokyo.

Japan currently has over 390,000 coronavirus cases and 5,832 fatalities as it grapples with the virus.

According to Japan's health ministry, the number of COVID-19 infections in Tokyo may have jumped by nine-fold since last summer after anti-body tests were conducted as the country prepares to host the Olympic games in July.

According to Japan's health ministry, the number of COVID-19 infections in Tokyo may have jumped by nine-fold since last summer after anti-body tests were conducted as the country prepares to host the Olympic games in July. Watch: The health ministry in a report said testing on people in Tokyo had revealed that 0.91 per cent had antibodies to the virus, compared with about 0.1 per cent in a similar study in June. There was also witnessed spike in antibody rates in Osaka and Miyagi Prefecture. Japan had earlier imposed a one-month emergency as the number of coronavirus cases surged, nine other areas including capital Tokoy was also put under restriction. Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga has approved the extension of the state of emergency until March 7. "Hospitalisation will remain high for some time to come, that is why we have to continue with these measures," the Japan PM said, adding, "each and every one of us needs to change the way we act if we are to contain the virus's spread." However, PM Suga said the restrictions will be lifted before March 7 in prefectures where the virus situation improves. Japan's government has insisted the Olympic games will go ahead as planned in July after it was postponed last year as the pandemic took hold worldwide. The country's Parliament had passed a new law strengthening enforcement of its virus restrictions which included fine on bars and restaurants which defy closure request with just five months left for the pandemic-postponed summer Olympics in Tokyo. Japan currently has over 390,000 coronavirus cases and 5,832 fatalities as it grapples with the virus.

Ahead of Olympics, survey finds COVID-19 infections in Tokyo may have jumped nine-fold

The USS <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-aircraft-carrier-nimitz-to-remain-in-gulf-as-threat-of-conflict-with-iran-looms-354271">Nimitz</a> Carrier Strike Group is moving to Indo-Pacific Command region, the Pentagon has informed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/south-china-sea-row-why-us-has-deployed-warship-uss-nimitz-in-naval-exercise-with-india-314673">In Pics: Why US has deployed warship USS Nimitz in Naval exercise with India</a>

The US aircraft carrier will be departing the Central Command "ensuring our national security and deterring conflict in a very critical region of the world", Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said.

The Biden administration has pulled the carrier from the Gulf in a sign of potentially easing tensions with Iran. "These decisions are carefully weighed," the Pentagon spokesman said, adding," Supporting Strike Group is a decision driven by a frank assessment of the threats in the area, and also a frank consideration of the capabilities themselves."

"The secretary (Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin III) was mindful of the larger geostrategic picture when he approved the movement of the carrier strike group from the Central Command area of responsibility to the Indo PACOM area of responsibility," Kirby added.

According to reports, the current US government could increase its presence in the South China Sea region. Last month, the US had moved USS Theodore Roosevelt in the South China Sea region.

The move is seen as the continuation of a tough approach towards&nbsp;China and the US government's commitment to Taiwan. The former Trump administration had moved Nimitz to the Gulf in November shortly before the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh although the Pentagon had said there was "no specific threats".

The Pentagon had said earlier that the carrier was stationed in the Gulf to ensure cover for the US troop withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan which was ordered by former President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The US carrier <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-indian-australian-japanese-naval-forces-have-proved-their-ability-nimitz-commander-on-malabar-naval-exercise-344566">Nimitz</a> had taken part in a naval exercise with Indian, Japanese and Australian forces in the Arabian Sea as part of the Quad group last year.

The USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is moving to Indo-Pacific Command region, the Pentagon has informed. In Pics: Why US has deployed warship USS Nimitz in Naval exercise with India The US aircraft carrier will be departing the Central Command "ensuring our national security and deterring conflict in a very critical region of the world", Pentagon Press Secretary John F.

The USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group is moving to Indo-Pacific Command region, the Pentagon has informed. In Pics: Why US has deployed warship USS Nimitz in Naval exercise with India The US aircraft carrier will be departing the Central Command "ensuring our national security and deterring conflict in a very critical region of the world", Pentagon Press Secretary John F. Kirby said. The Biden administration has pulled the carrier from the Gulf in a sign of potentially easing tensions with Iran. "These decisions are carefully weighed," the Pentagon spokesman said, adding," Supporting Strike Group is a decision driven by a frank assessment of the threats in the area, and also a frank consideration of the capabilities themselves." "The secretary (Secretary of Defense Lloyd J Austin III) was mindful of the larger geostrategic picture when he approved the movement of the carrier strike group from the Central Command area of responsibility to the Indo PACOM area of responsibility," Kirby added. According to reports, the current US government could increase its presence in the South China Sea region. Last month, the US had moved USS Theodore Roosevelt in the South China Sea region. The move is seen as the continuation of a tough approach towards China and the US government's commitment to Taiwan. The former Trump administration had moved Nimitz to the Gulf in November shortly before the assassination of Iranian nuclear scientist Mohsen Fakhrizadeh although the Pentagon had said there was "no specific threats". The Pentagon had said earlier that the carrier was stationed in the Gulf to ensure cover for the US troop withdrawal from Iraq and Afghanistan which was ordered by former President Donald Trump. The US carrier Nimitz had taken part in a naval exercise with Indian, Japanese and Australian forces in the Arabian Sea as part of the Quad group last year.

US moves Nimitz aircraft carrier in Indo-Pacific region with eye on China

As several countries grapple with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/finland-recommends-giving-covid-vaccine-at-12-week-interval-361110">vaccine</a> shortages, British researchers said today that they will study immune response to coronavirus vaccines from Pfizer-BioNtech and AstraZeneca combining it in a two-shot schedule.

Watch:

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The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/inoculation-may-provide-protection-from-severe-diseases-says-oxfords-vaccine-head-361067">Oxford</a> researchers added that combining the vaccines would help them to identify whether it can be rolled out with greater efficiency. The study will involve doses of Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine followed by AstraZeneca with intervals of 4 and 12 weeks. The data is set to be published in June this year with at least 800 participants set to take part who are already being recruited.

The researchers will measure antibody and T-cell responses, including possible side effects. The researchers plan to have over 50 year-olds in greater numbers who are reportedly more susceptible to the virus.

British government's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Jonathan van-Tam said: "Given the inevitable challenges of immunising large numbers of the population against COVID-19 and potential global supply constraints, there are definite advantages to having data that could support a more flexible immunisation programme."

"It is also even possible that by combining <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/study-shows-variant-spreading-in-britain-could-become-resistant-to-vaccines-360831">vaccines</a>, the immune response could be enhanced giving even higher antibody levels that last longer," Tam added.

Britain was the first western nation to kick off the vaccination drive in early December with the European Union starting its drive on December 27. However, there has been a shortage of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eu-chief-promises-extra-doses-of-astrazeneca-and-pfizer-biontech-vaccine-360683">Pfizer</a> vaccines in Europe in recent weeks leading several nations to temporarily halt operations.

Britain is the worst-hit country in Europe with over 3.8 million COVID-19 cases and 109, 547 fatalities with most of the country in a partial lockdown.

The coronavirus crisis deepened over Christmas in England after the British government announced the arrival of South African variant which it said was 70 per cent more transferable.

As several countries grapple with vaccine shortages, British researchers said today that they will study immune response to coronavirus vaccines from Pfizer-BioNtech and AstraZeneca combining it in a two-shot schedule.

As several countries grapple with vaccine shortages, British researchers said today that they will study immune response to coronavirus vaccines from Pfizer-BioNtech and AstraZeneca combining it in a two-shot schedule. Watch: The Oxford researchers added that combining the vaccines would help them to identify whether it can be rolled out with greater efficiency. The study will involve doses of Pfizer-BioNtech vaccine followed by AstraZeneca with intervals of 4 and 12 weeks. The data is set to be published in June this year with at least 800 participants set to take part who are already being recruited. The researchers will measure antibody and T-cell responses, including possible side effects. The researchers plan to have over 50 year-olds in greater numbers who are reportedly more susceptible to the virus. British government's Deputy Chief Medical Officer, Jonathan van-Tam said: "Given the inevitable challenges of immunising large numbers of the population against COVID-19 and potential global supply constraints, there are definite advantages to having data that could support a more flexible immunisation programme." "It is also even possible that by combining vaccines, the immune response could be enhanced giving even higher antibody levels that last longer," Tam added. Britain was the first western nation to kick off the vaccination drive in early December with the European Union starting its drive on December 27. However, there has been a shortage of Pfizer vaccines in Europe in recent weeks leading several nations to temporarily halt operations. Britain is the worst-hit country in Europe with over 3.8 million COVID-19 cases and 109, 547 fatalities with most of the country in a partial lockdown. The coronavirus crisis deepened over Christmas in England after the British government announced the arrival of South African variant which it said was 70 per cent more transferable.

Oxford researchers to combine Pfizer, AstraZeneca vaccines in two-short doses to test efficacy

As the United States continues to battle the virus, chief medical advisor to US President Joe Biden, Dr. Anthony Fauci urged Americans to skip the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/slimmed-down-super-bowl-week-kicks-off-as-virus-threat-remains-360799">Super Bowl </a>party this year.

Watch:

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"As much fun as it is to get together for a big Super Bowl party, now is not the time to do that," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fauci-says-uk-coronavirus-variant-to-become-more-dominant-in-us-by-march-360187">Fauci</a> told a US television channel. The mega Super Bowl sports event this year is taking place against a backdrop of the coronavirus crisis in the United States.

At least 25,000 people are expected to witness the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/super-bowl-security-officers-prep-for-triple-threat-of-pandemic-politics-and-hometown-crowds-360679">Super Bowl</a>, as Fauci said: "Watch the game and enjoy it, but do it with your family or the people in your household, this time around, just lay low and cool it," Fauci said during his TV appearance.

The Super Bowl event is an annual crowd puller across the United States as millions follow the final. However, the COVID-19 crisis in the US this year has made authorities defensive. The US is worst-hit country due to the virus with over 26 million infected cases and 450, 680 deaths so far.

The US had shutdown in March last year as the pandemic began to spread in the country which was around six weeks after Super Bowl event. This year's defending champion Kansas City Chiefs will play against Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the Bucs' home field in Tampa, Florida.

"Every time we have something like this, there's always a spike, be it a holiday, Christmas, New Year's, Thanksgiving," <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/skunk-of-the-picnic-dr-fauci-opens-up-about-his-experience-serving-trumps-covid-taskforce-359200">Fauci </a>said. The infections disease expert, however, he added&nbsp;that people will be separated in the stands and will be wearing masks with at least 7,500 vaccinated health care workers at the &nbsp;NFL championship showdown at Raymond James Stadium&nbsp;

Kansas City Chiefs had earlier placed Demarcus Robinson and Daniel Kilgore on the COVID-19 reserve list after both players had come into contact with someone who had tested positive for the disease.

As the United States continues to battle the virus, chief medical advisor to US President Joe Biden, Dr. Anthony Fauci urged Americans to skip the Super Bowl party this year.

As the United States continues to battle the virus, chief medical advisor to US President Joe Biden, Dr. Anthony Fauci urged Americans to skip the Super Bowl party this year. Watch: "As much fun as it is to get together for a big Super Bowl party, now is not the time to do that," Fauci told a US television channel. The mega Super Bowl sports event this year is taking place against a backdrop of the coronavirus crisis in the United States. At least 25,000 people are expected to witness the Super Bowl, as Fauci said: "Watch the game and enjoy it, but do it with your family or the people in your household, this time around, just lay low and cool it," Fauci said during his TV appearance. The Super Bowl event is an annual crowd puller across the United States as millions follow the final. However, the COVID-19 crisis in the US this year has made authorities defensive. The US is worst-hit country due to the virus with over 26 million infected cases and 450, 680 deaths so far. The US had shutdown in March last year as the pandemic began to spread in the country which was around six weeks after Super Bowl event. This year's defending champion Kansas City Chiefs will play against Tampa Bay Buccaneers on the Bucs' home field in Tampa, Florida. "Every time we have something like this, there's always a spike, be it a holiday, Christmas, New Year's, Thanksgiving," Fauci said. The infections disease expert, however, he added that people will be separated in the stands and will be wearing masks with at least 7,500 vaccinated health care workers at the NFL championship showdown at Raymond James Stadium Kansas City Chiefs had earlier placed Demarcus Robinson and Daniel Kilgore on the COVID-19 reserve list after both players had come into contact with someone who had tested positive for the disease.

Skip the Super Bowl party this year, Fauci tells Americans

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-plans-dam-on-brahmaputra-to-offset-chinese-construction-upstream-346723">Brahmaputra</a> river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river.

MoS external affairs V Muraleedharan told India's lower House of Parliament that the&nbsp;government has consistently conveyed its views and concerns to Chinese authorities and has urged them to ensure interests of downstream states aren't harmed.

"Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed with China under institutionalized Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006 and through diplomatic channels," the minister said.

Chinese state media had reported earlier that authorities could build up to 60 GW of hydropower capacity on a section of the Brahmaputra which has alerted Indian officials. According to reports, China is planning to build a major hydropower project on Brahmaputra river in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-prepares-to-build-dam-on-brahmaputra-river-in-tibet-india-raises-concern-346417">Tibet</a> which was reportedly presented in the 14th Five-Year Plan. The construction is reportedly set to begin this year.

The Central Committee of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) had said that "There is no parallel in history... it will be a historic opportunity for the Chinese hydropower industry."

"The Chinese side has conveyed to us on several occasions that they are only undertaking run-of-the-river hydropower projects, which do not involve diversion of the waters of the Brahmaputra," MoS external affairs said.

"We intend to remain engaged with China on the issue of trans-border rivers to safeguard our interests," the minister told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the Brahmaputra river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river.

The Indian government on Wednesday informed the Lok Sabha that it is "carefully monitoring" all developments on the Brahmaputra river over China's plans for hydropower development on the lower reaches of the Brahmaputra river. MoS external affairs V Muraleedharan told India's lower House of Parliament that the government has consistently conveyed its views and concerns to Chinese authorities and has urged them to ensure interests of downstream states aren't harmed. "Various issues relating to trans-border rivers are discussed with China under institutionalized Expert Level Mechanism established in 2006 and through diplomatic channels," the minister said. Chinese state media had reported earlier that authorities could build up to 60 GW of hydropower capacity on a section of the Brahmaputra which has alerted Indian officials. According to reports, China is planning to build a major hydropower project on Brahmaputra river in Tibet which was reportedly presented in the 14th Five-Year Plan. The construction is reportedly set to begin this year. The Central Committee of the ruling Communist Party of China (CPC) had said that "There is no parallel in history... it will be a historic opportunity for the Chinese hydropower industry." "The Chinese side has conveyed to us on several occasions that they are only undertaking run-of-the-river hydropower projects, which do not involve diversion of the waters of the Brahmaputra," MoS external affairs said. "We intend to remain engaged with China on the issue of trans-border rivers to safeguard our interests," the minister told the Lok Sabha in a written reply.

Brahmaputra row: Engaged with China over trans-border rivers, says minister to Lok Sabha

The Canadian government has designated US far-right group <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/proud-boys-charged-with-conspiracy-in-capitol-riot-360330">Proud Boys</a> as a &nbsp;banned terrorist organization.

Canadian authorities said the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/canada-mulls-labeling-proud-boys-as-terrorist-organisation-after-us-capitol-hill-riots-356178">Proud Boys</a> are a "serious and growing threat". US Federal prosecutors investigating the Capitol riots last month had charged Proud Boys with conspiracy charges.

The US Justice Department had said it had filed indictment against two Proud Boys - Dominic Pezzola,43, and William Pepe,31.&nbsp;

The Canadian government said the &nbsp;"neo-fascist organization that engages in political violence" and whose members "espouse misogynistic, Islamophobic, anti-Semitic, anti-immigrant, and/or white supremacist ideologies."

The police in the United States had earlier arrested Henry "Enrique" Tarrio, 36, accusing him of burning a "Black Lives Matter" banner. The Proud Boys have been associated with the insurrection at the deadly US Capitol.

The white supremacist group has been a vocal supporter of former president Donald Trump who has at times has supported the outfit.

During the US presidential campaign, Trump and Biden had clashed over the conduct of Proud Boys after Trump said "Proud Boys -- stand back and stand by", however later the former president backtracked and said, "I don't know who Proud Boys are but whoever they are they have to stand down."

Joe Biden at the time hit back saying "This. This is Donald Trump's America."

&nbsp;"My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," Biden said. "That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans," Joe Biden had said.

The Canadian government has designated US far-right group Proud Boys as a banned terrorist organization. Canadian authorities said the Proud Boys are a "serious and growing threat".

The Canadian government has designated US far-right group Proud Boys as a banned terrorist organization. Canadian authorities said the Proud Boys are a "serious and growing threat". US Federal prosecutors investigating the Capitol riots last month had charged Proud Boys with conspiracy charges. The US Justice Department had said it had filed indictment against two Proud Boys - Dominic Pezzola,43, and William Pepe,31. The Canadian government said the "neo-fascist organization that engages in political violence" and whose members "espouse misogynistic, Islamophobic, anti-Semitic, anti-immigrant, and/or white supremacist ideologies." The police in the United States had earlier arrested Henry "Enrique" Tarrio, 36, accusing him of burning a "Black Lives Matter" banner. The Proud Boys have been associated with the insurrection at the deadly US Capitol. The white supremacist group has been a vocal supporter of former president Donald Trump who has at times has supported the outfit. During the US presidential campaign, Trump and Biden had clashed over the conduct of Proud Boys after Trump said "Proud Boys -- stand back and stand by", however later the former president backtracked and said, "I don't know who Proud Boys are but whoever they are they have to stand down." Joe Biden at the time hit back saying "This. This is Donald Trump's America." "My message to the Proud Boys and every other white supremacist group is: cease and desist," Biden said. "That's not who we are. This is not who we are as Americans," Joe Biden had said.

Canada designates 'Proud Boys' as terrorist group, cites active security threat

Internet providers in<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-blocks-un-security-council-statement-condemning-myanmar-coup-361052"> Myanmar</a> including state-owned telecom MPT have blocked access to Facebook services in the country. The crackdown on internet services comes days after military leaders seized power in a coup.

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A letter posted online by the ministry of communications and information overnight said that Facebook will be blocked until &nbsp;February 7 "for the sake of stability".

The ministry's letter to telecom operators said that, "Currently the people who are troubling the country’s stability are spreading fake news and misinformation and causing misunderstanding among people by using Facebook."

Facebook spokesman Andy Stone acknowledged the disruption while urging authorities to restore connectivity "so that people in Myanmar can communicate with their families and friends and access important information."

Almost half of Myanmar’s 53 million people use Facebook which for many is synonymous with the internet. Meanwhile, &nbsp;Myanmar court charged Aung San Suu Kyi with breaching an import and export law just days after the military coup in which several leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD) were detained.

A court in Naypyidaw had remanded Suu Kyi to 14-day custody including &nbsp;President Win Myint. The NLD had won the elections in November by a landslide, however, the military had accused the elections was riddled with voter fraud.

The US <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-in-touch-with-japan-india-in-the-aftermath-of-myanmar-coup-361010">State Department </a>said &nbsp;it was "disturbed" by the charges levelled on &nbsp;Suu Kyi, saying: "We call on the military to immediately release them all."

The Myanmar military had declared a one-year state of emergency soon after the coup on Monday.

Internet providers in Myanmar including state-owned telecom MPT have blocked access to Facebook services in the country. The crackdown on internet services comes days after military leaders seized power in a coup.

Internet providers in Myanmar including state-owned telecom MPT have blocked access to Facebook services in the country. The crackdown on internet services comes days after military leaders seized power in a coup. Watch: A letter posted online by the ministry of communications and information overnight said that Facebook will be blocked until February 7 "for the sake of stability". The ministry's letter to telecom operators said that, "Currently the people who are troubling the country’s stability are spreading fake news and misinformation and causing misunderstanding among people by using Facebook." Facebook spokesman Andy Stone acknowledged the disruption while urging authorities to restore connectivity "so that people in Myanmar can communicate with their families and friends and access important information." Almost half of Myanmar’s 53 million people use Facebook which for many is synonymous with the internet. Meanwhile, Myanmar court charged Aung San Suu Kyi with breaching an import and export law just days after the military coup in which several leaders of the National League for Democracy (NLD) were detained. A court in Naypyidaw had remanded Suu Kyi to 14-day custody including President Win Myint. The NLD had won the elections in November by a landslide, however, the military had accused the elections was riddled with voter fraud. The US State Department said it was "disturbed" by the charges levelled on Suu Kyi, saying: "We call on the military to immediately release them all." The Myanmar military had declared a one-year state of emergency soon after the coup on Monday.

Myanmar military clamps down on internet services, blocks Facebook

Social media users in Pakistan slammed the country's national poet Alama Iqbal's statue in a Lahore park&nbsp;for being badly made with the hastag #AllamaIqbal dominating Twitter.

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Just Saw this and got very disappointed. Is it Allama Iqbal’s statue? 🤔 <a href="https://t.co/LeL16yOytH">pic.twitter.com/LeL16yOytH</a>
— Shahjhan Malik | #WearAMask (@shahjhan_malikk) <a href="https://twitter.com/shahjhan_malikk/status/1356513733690982402?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The Twitterati was further enraged after Yasir Gillani the city’s parks and horticulture authority (PHA) chairman said that it was "prepared by maalis at their own and they made it with love for Iqbal and to pay homage from their heart."

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Dear, this is prepared by maalis at their own , they made it in shere love for Iqbal and to pay homage from their heart. Authority didn't approved or even paid a single penny for it. 
WE WILL ADDRESS IT but can anyone see from maalis eye's, their love and their عقیدت, <a href="https://t.co/qAdf0Nw4E9">pic.twitter.com/qAdf0Nw4E9</a>
— Yasir Gillani PTI (@yasir_gillani) <a href="https://twitter.com/yasir_gillani/status/1356512137376649216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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Several people on social media&nbsp;asked the statue to be removed including Pakistan's Punjab&nbsp;chief minister Usman Buzdar. The statue was unveiled on Pakistan's 73rd Independence Day on August 14 last year however it came into focus this year.

Iqbal who was a lawyer was known for his Urdu and Persian poetry. He is still followed by many in Pakistan and is revered as a national icon.

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Punjab govt remove statue of Alama Iqbal and tweets 
Le IQBAL <a href="https://t.co/RcLwdAaYPQ">pic.twitter.com/RcLwdAaYPQ</a>
— No one's valentine (@BABL00_) <a href="https://twitter.com/BABL00_/status/1356585459435061249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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This picture tell us what u are and what trying to make 🤗🤣😂<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/alamaiqbal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#alamaiqbal</a> <a href="https://t.co/eYWDJ5ycdm">pic.twitter.com/eYWDJ5ycdm</a>
— Huma Sultan (@HumaSultan7) <a href="https://twitter.com/HumaSultan7/status/1356703262875992064?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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😀If you can see the resemblance, I think the art resembles more Gen.Bajwa than Alama Iqbal sahab.. <a href="https://t.co/Z6vkKEfSrj">pic.twitter.com/Z6vkKEfSrj</a>
— 𝙔𝘼𝙎𝙎𝙀𝙍 𝙍𝙊𝙉𝘼𝙇𝘿𝙊 (@yasserronaldo99) <a href="https://twitter.com/yasserronaldo99/status/1356523377440280581?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2021</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

Social media users in Pakistan slammed the country's national poet Alama Iqbal's statue in a Lahore park for being badly made with the hastag #AllamaIqbal dominating Twitter.

Social media users in Pakistan slammed the country's national poet Alama Iqbal's statue in a Lahore park for being badly made with the hastag #AllamaIqbal dominating Twitter. Just Saw this and got very disappointed. Is it Allama Iqbal’s statue? 🤔 pic.twitter.com/LeL16yOytH — Shahjhan Malik | #WearAMask (@shahjhan_malikk) February 2, 2021 × The Twitterati was further enraged after Yasir Gillani the city’s parks and horticulture authority (PHA) chairman said that it was "prepared by maalis at their own and they made it with love for Iqbal and to pay homage from their heart." Dear, this is prepared by maalis at their own , they made it in shere love for Iqbal and to pay homage from their heart. Authority didn't approved or even paid a single penny for it. WE WILL ADDRESS IT but can anyone see from maalis eye's, their love and their عقیدت, pic.twitter.com/qAdf0Nw4E9 — Yasir Gillani PTI (@yasir_gillani) February 2, 2021 × Several people on social media asked the statue to be removed including Pakistan's Punjab chief minister Usman Buzdar. The statue was unveiled on Pakistan's 73rd Independence Day on August 14 last year however it came into focus this year. Iqbal who was a lawyer was known for his Urdu and Persian poetry. He is still followed by many in Pakistan and is revered as a national icon. Punjab govt remove statue of Alama Iqbal and tweets Le IQBAL pic.twitter.com/RcLwdAaYPQ — No one's valentine (@BABL00_) February 2, 2021 × This picture tell us what u are and what trying to make 🤗🤣😂#alamaiqbal pic.twitter.com/eYWDJ5ycdm — Huma Sultan (@HumaSultan7) February 2, 2021 × 😀If you can see the resemblance, I think the art resembles more Gen.Bajwa than Alama Iqbal sahab.. pic.twitter.com/Z6vkKEfSrj — 𝙔𝘼𝙎𝙎𝙀𝙍 𝙍𝙊𝙉𝘼𝙇𝘿𝙊 (@yasserronaldo99) February 2, 2021 ×

Twitterati in Pakistan slam poet Iqbal's statue in Lahore park

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-taiwan-that-independence-means-war-359865">Taiwan</a> on Thursday opened its trade office in Guyana in a move which is likely to anger China.

Taiwan's foreign ministry said it had signed an agreement with Guyana to open the office which had begun operations on January 15.

Watch:

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"This milestone will benefit both partners and advance security, democratic values and prosperity in the region,"&nbsp;Julie Chung, acting assistant secretary of the State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, said.

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The U.S. welcomes the establishment of a Taiwan office in Guyana, which will strengthen their growing relationship. 
 
This milestone will benefit both partners and advance security, democratic values and prosperity in the region. <a href="https://t.co/qPmwg7GeLt">https://t.co/qPmwg7GeLt</a>
— Julie Chung (@WHAAsstSecty) <a href="https://twitter.com/WHAAsstSecty/status/1357112314017837058?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 3, 2021</a></blockquote>
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The US embassy in Guyana backed the move, saying in a statement that "closer ties with Taiwan will advance cooperation and development in Guyana on the basis of shared democratic values, transparency, and mutual respect."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-says-military-exercises-a-solemn-warning-to-taiwan-359584">China </a>does not consider Taiwan as an independent country and has vowed to annex it even as the US has backed Taiwan with military hardware in recent years. Taiwan is officially recognised by only 15 countries.

President Tsai Ing-wen has stridently opposed China's aggressive moves ever since she came to power in 2016. &nbsp;Last year, Taiwan had opened an office in Somaliland which attracted China ire.&nbsp;

Guyana is yet to open a reciprocal office in Taiwan even as the foreign ministry said it will enjoy similar conditions and privileges if it does. Guyana has close ties with China as foreign minister Hugh Todd said: "Guyana is not recognising Taiwan as an independent state. Guyana is not establishing diplomatic relations with Taipei."

Chinese Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said it hoped Guyana would not engage in official ties with Taiwan, adding, the country should "earnestly take steps to correct their mistake".

Taiwan on Thursday opened its trade office in Guyana in a move which is likely to anger China. Taiwan's foreign ministry said it had signed an agreement with Guyana to open the office which had begun operations on January 15.

Taiwan on Thursday opened its trade office in Guyana in a move which is likely to anger China. Taiwan's foreign ministry said it had signed an agreement with Guyana to open the office which had begun operations on January 15. Watch: "This milestone will benefit both partners and advance security, democratic values and prosperity in the region," Julie Chung, acting assistant secretary of the State Department's Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, said. The U.S. welcomes the establishment of a Taiwan office in Guyana, which will strengthen their growing relationship. This milestone will benefit both partners and advance security, democratic values and prosperity in the region. https://t.co/qPmwg7GeLt — Julie Chung (@WHAAsstSecty) February 3, 2021 × The US embassy in Guyana backed the move, saying in a statement that "closer ties with Taiwan will advance cooperation and development in Guyana on the basis of shared democratic values, transparency, and mutual respect." China does not consider Taiwan as an independent country and has vowed to annex it even as the US has backed Taiwan with military hardware in recent years. Taiwan is officially recognised by only 15 countries. President Tsai Ing-wen has stridently opposed China's aggressive moves ever since she came to power in 2016. Last year, Taiwan had opened an office in Somaliland which attracted China ire. Guyana is yet to open a reciprocal office in Taiwan even as the foreign ministry said it will enjoy similar conditions and privileges if it does. Guyana has close ties with China as foreign minister Hugh Todd said: "Guyana is not recognising Taiwan as an independent state. Guyana is not establishing diplomatic relations with Taipei." Chinese Foreign ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin said it hoped Guyana would not engage in official ties with Taiwan, adding, the country should "earnestly take steps to correct their mistake".

In 'milestone' move, Taiwan opens trade office in Guyana

India's air chief &nbsp;RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/india-china-standoff">Line of Actual Control</a>(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border

Watch:

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"They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there."&nbsp;

Bhadauria asserted that talks were going on between Indian and Chinese commanders while stating that "lots of attention" was given to it. &nbsp;"If de-escalation and disengagement starts, it'll be good. If it doesn’t happen or some new situation happens, we're fully prepared," he said.&nbsp;

"We know their actions and capabilities," India's air chief said on China's capabilities. Bhadauria said Rafale fighter jets had caused worries in the Chinese camp.

The IAF had deployed the Rafale fighters in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ladakh-incident-profoundly-disturbed-india-china-ties-says-indian-external-affairs-minister-jaishankar-359824">eastern Ladakh </a>after it was procured from France. In November, the IAF had received the second batch of three Rafales at Jamnagar airbase in Gujarat.

The IAF currently has eight <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/boost-to-indias-airpower-iaf-received-the-second-batch-of-rafale-jets-340573">Rafale</a> jets in service. &nbsp;India had signed an agreement with France for 36 Rafale aircraft at a cost of Rs 59,000 crore. The country had received the first batch of five Rafale aircraft in July last year which was inducted in September, 2020 at the Ambala air base in the 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron.

India's air chief had said earlier that the government is concentrating on procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas (Mark 1A), 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) and upgraded versions of the LCA.

In 2019, the IAF had issued an RFI (request for information) &nbsp;to acquire 114 jets which was billed as one of the world's biggest military procurements in recent years. The top contenders for the deal included Lockheed's F-21, Boeing's F/A-18, Dassault Aviation's Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russian aircraft MiG 35 and Saab's Gripen.

India's air chief RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border Watch: "They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there.

India's air chief RKS Bhadauria said that the Indian Air Force(IAF) is fully prepared to face any situation along the Line of Actual Control(LAC) with China amid the standoff at the border Watch: "They had brought their J-20 fighter aircraft to areas close to eastern Ladakh," adding,"The moment Indian Rafales were brought in, their J-20 was there." Bhadauria asserted that talks were going on between Indian and Chinese commanders while stating that "lots of attention" was given to it. "If de-escalation and disengagement starts, it'll be good. If it doesn’t happen or some new situation happens, we're fully prepared," he said. "We know their actions and capabilities," India's air chief said on China's capabilities. Bhadauria said Rafale fighter jets had caused worries in the Chinese camp. The IAF had deployed the Rafale fighters in eastern Ladakh after it was procured from France. In November, the IAF had received the second batch of three Rafales at Jamnagar airbase in Gujarat. The IAF currently has eight Rafale jets in service. India had signed an agreement with France for 36 Rafale aircraft at a cost of Rs 59,000 crore. The country had received the first batch of five Rafale aircraft in July last year which was inducted in September, 2020 at the Ambala air base in the 17 ‘Golden Arrows’ squadron. India's air chief had said earlier that the government is concentrating on procurement of 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas (Mark 1A), 114 multi-role fighter aircraft (MRFA) and upgraded versions of the LCA. In 2019, the IAF had issued an RFI (request for information) to acquire 114 jets which was billed as one of the world's biggest military procurements in recent years. The top contenders for the deal included Lockheed's F-21, Boeing's F/A-18, Dassault Aviation's Rafale, the Eurofighter Typhoon, Russian aircraft MiG 35 and Saab's Gripen.

India-China standoff: China moved J-20 fighters the moment Rafales were stationed at LAC, says IAF chief Bhadauria 

The top House Republican refused Wednesday to punish Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for spreading false and bigoted conspiracy theories and endorsing political violence against Democrats, condemning the Georgia freshman’s previous comments but declining to take away her posts on influential congressional committees.

After days of public silence and private agonizing over what to do about Greene — who has endorsed the executions of top Democrats, suggested that school shootings were staged and said that a space laser controlled by Jewish financiers started a wildfire — the minority leader, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, issued a tortured statement that harshly denounced her past statements, but then argued that she should face no consequences for them.

“Past comments from and endorsed by Marjorie Taylor Greene on school shootings, political violence, and anti-Semitic conspiracy theories do not represent the values or beliefs of the House Republican Conference,” McCarthy said.

The contortions over what to do about Greene came days after Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the most powerful Republican in Washington, denounced her as a threat to his party and as more senators followed his lead.

The feuding played out behind closed doors well into Wednesday evening, as House Republicans debated stripping Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, the chamber’s No. 3 Republican, of her leadership post, as a penalty for her vote to impeach President Donald Trump.

Cheney ultimately emerged victorious after a 145-61 secret ballot vote. The lopsided results also amounted to a vote of confidence in McCarthy, who delivered an impassioned closing speech, according to officials in the room. In the hourslong, often heated meeting, according to people familiar with the discussion, McCarthy stood by both Cheney and Greene, and stressed the importance of presenting a united front.

In his defense of Cheney, McCarthy told lawmakers that he wanted their leadership team to “stay together.” He reminded his colleagues that they elected him as their leader, and he asked them to let him lead by picking his team.

The challenge to Greene will continue Thursday, when House Democrats will call a vote of the full chamber to strip her of her committee assignments. McCarthy called it a “partisan power grab.”

He also warned that if they indulged the effort to strip Greene of her assignments, Democrats could try to target other Republicans, according to three people familiar with his comments, who insisted on anonymity to divulge the private exchange.

The top House Republican refused Wednesday to punish Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for spreading false and bigoted conspiracy theories and endorsing political violence against Democrats, condemning the Georgia freshman’s previous comments but declining to take away her posts on influential congressional committees.

The top House Republican refused Wednesday to punish Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene for spreading false and bigoted conspiracy theories and endorsing political violence against Democrats, condemning the Georgia freshman’s previous comments but declining to take away her posts on influential congressional committees. After days of public silence and private agonizing over what to do about Greene — who has endorsed the executions of top Democrats, suggested that school shootings were staged and said that a space laser controlled by Jewish financiers started a wildfire — the minority leader, Rep. Kevin McCarthy of California, issued a tortured statement that harshly denounced her past statements, but then argued that she should face no consequences for them. “Past comments from and endorsed by Marjorie Taylor Greene on school shootings, political violence, and anti-Semitic conspiracy theories do not represent the values or beliefs of the House Republican Conference,” McCarthy said. The contortions over what to do about Greene came days after Sen. Mitch McConnell of Kentucky, the most powerful Republican in Washington, denounced her as a threat to his party and as more senators followed his lead. The feuding played out behind closed doors well into Wednesday evening, as House Republicans debated stripping Rep. Liz Cheney of Wyoming, the chamber’s No. 3 Republican, of her leadership post, as a penalty for her vote to impeach President Donald Trump. Cheney ultimately emerged victorious after a 145-61 secret ballot vote. The lopsided results also amounted to a vote of confidence in McCarthy, who delivered an impassioned closing speech, according to officials in the room. In the hourslong, often heated meeting, according to people familiar with the discussion, McCarthy stood by both Cheney and Greene, and stressed the importance of presenting a united front. In his defense of Cheney, McCarthy told lawmakers that he wanted their leadership team to “stay together.” He reminded his colleagues that they elected him as their leader, and he asked them to let him lead by picking his team. The challenge to Greene will continue Thursday, when House Democrats will call a vote of the full chamber to strip her of her committee assignments. McCarthy called it a “partisan power grab.” He also warned that if they indulged the effort to strip Greene of her assignments, Democrats could try to target other Republicans, according to three people familiar with his comments, who insisted on anonymity to divulge the private exchange.

Top House Republican condemns Marjorie Taylor Greene’s comments, but stands by her

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