Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has apologised to the nation after an outbreak of coronavirus on the navy ship, Panshi.

"I am the Commander-in-Chief, the military's business is my business and my responsibility. There are major shortcomings in the navy's pandemic prevention measures during this mission, and the public is now bearing the risks. I want to give my apologies," she apologized during a speech in a live broadcast.

So far the island had been earning praise&nbsp;from all over the world for handling the pandemic in an impressive manner. However, the situation quickly changed after 28 people tested positive onboard the frigate Panshi.&nbsp;

Taiwan, considering its close proximity and economic ties to China&nbsp;started scanning the inbound flights from Wuhan in the initial stages itself. This not only helped the country to&nbsp;contain the spread, but also helped it to&nbsp;gain praise for swift actions. It has also won diplomatic praise for shipments of masks and other protective equipment overseas, including to Europe.&nbsp;

However, the recent outbreak on the navy ship added to the total number of cases and increased the toll to 425 positive cases and 6 deaths.

The vessel had arrived in Palau on March 15 and left again after three days, only to return to the port of Kaohsiung on April 9. The crew members were allowed to disembark six days later and the first few positive cases were found over the weekend.

After being grilled by the experts, the fleet's commander, Rear Admiral Chen Tao-hui, said, "I swear with my life that I absolutely didn't cover-up any infection. As soldiers we would rather die at sea, die in the ship. I would not let the virus endanger our countrymen who we should protect."

He apologised on Wednesday for "major shortcomings" within the military after a cluster of coronavirus infections emerged on a navy vessel recently returned from a goodwill mission to Palau.&nbsp;

So far 28 people on board the frigate "Panshi" have tested positive for the virus after returning from a trip to the Pacific island nation -- one of just 15 countries that still diplomatically recognise Taipei over Beijing.

The government has faced criticism in recent days over why the navy pushed ahead with the mission despite the pandemic. They also had to face the question of whether officials hid the fact that some sailors were running fevers during the voyage.&nbsp;

Since the first cases were identified, the authorities have been tracking where crew members have been and who may have had contact with them. Chen and another admiral have been removed from their posts pending further investigation.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has apologised to the nation after an outbreak of coronavirus on the navy ship, Panshi. "I am the Commander-in-Chief, the military's business is my business and my responsibility.

Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen has apologised to the nation after an outbreak of coronavirus on the navy ship, Panshi. "I am the Commander-in-Chief, the military's business is my business and my responsibility. There are major shortcomings in the navy's pandemic prevention measures during this mission, and the public is now bearing the risks. I want to give my apologies," she apologized during a speech in a live broadcast. So far the island had been earning praise from all over the world for handling the pandemic in an impressive manner. However, the situation quickly changed after 28 people tested positive onboard the frigate Panshi. Taiwan, considering its close proximity and economic ties to China started scanning the inbound flights from Wuhan in the initial stages itself. This not only helped the country to contain the spread, but also helped it to gain praise for swift actions. It has also won diplomatic praise for shipments of masks and other protective equipment overseas, including to Europe. However, the recent outbreak on the navy ship added to the total number of cases and increased the toll to 425 positive cases and 6 deaths. The vessel had arrived in Palau on March 15 and left again after three days, only to return to the port of Kaohsiung on April 9. The crew members were allowed to disembark six days later and the first few positive cases were found over the weekend. After being grilled by the experts, the fleet's commander, Rear Admiral Chen Tao-hui, said, "I swear with my life that I absolutely didn't cover-up any infection. As soldiers we would rather die at sea, die in the ship. I would not let the virus endanger our countrymen who we should protect." He apologised on Wednesday for "major shortcomings" within the military after a cluster of coronavirus infections emerged on a navy vessel recently returned from a goodwill mission to Palau. So far 28 people on board the frigate "Panshi" have tested positive for the virus after returning from a trip to the Pacific island nation -- one of just 15 countries that still diplomatically recognise Taipei over Beijing. The government has faced criticism in recent days over why the navy pushed ahead with the mission despite the pandemic. They also had to face the question of whether officials hid the fact that some sailors were running fevers during the voyage. Since the first cases were identified, the authorities have been tracking where crew members have been and who may have had contact with them. Chen and another admiral have been removed from their posts pending further investigation.

Taiwan President apologises over coronavirus in navy ship

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

Chinese health authorities have ordered new arrivals to undergo isolation and have made&nbsp;efforts to identify citizens coming from Russia

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/will-sign-executive-order-prohibiting-immigration-to-us-today-trump-294027">Will sign executive order prohibiting immigration to US today: Trump</a>

''I will be signing my Executive Order prohibiting immigration into our Country today,'' Trump tweeted.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-vaccines-regulator-approves-first-trial-of-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-294014">Germany approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate</a>

BioNTech said it was developing the vaccine candidate, named BNT162, together with its partner, pharma giant Pfizer.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-house-to-pass-nearly-500-billion-more-in-coronavirus-aid-on-thursday-pelosi-294046" hreflang="en">US House to pass nearly $500 billion more in coronavirus aid on Thursday: Pelosi</a>

The US House of Representatives will pass Congress' latest coronavirus aid bill on Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, paving the way for nearly $500 billion more in economic relief amid the pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-due-to-coronavirus-rises-to-5391-in-iran-businesses-open-294039" hreflang="en">Death toll due to coronavirus rises to 5,391 in Iran; businesses open</a>

With a rapid increase in coronavirus&nbsp;cases in Iran, the officials have announced 94 new deaths due to COVID- 19. Since it's first case in February, Iran has struggled to flatten the curve.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/instructed-us-navy-to-shoot-down-iranian-gunboats-if-they-harass-our-ships-at-sea-trump-294036" hreflang="en">Instructed US Navy to shoot down Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea: Trump</a>

The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/covid-19-babies-test-positive-in-japanese-care-centre-294024" hreflang="en">COVID-19 : Babies test positive in Japanese care centre</a>

While Japan has been trying their best to avoid large spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in-hospital transmissions.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fight-climate-change-like-coronavirus-united-nations-294022" hreflang="en">Fight climate change like coronavirus: United Nations&nbsp;</a>

The United Nations on Wednesday urged the world to fight climate change with the same determination as it is showing in the battle against COVID-19.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008" hreflang="en">Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day</a>

Spain had announced earlier that children who have been housebound for nearly six weeks can go out for walks from the weekend.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-becoming-tool-of-chinese-propaganda-trump-administration-294006" hreflang="en">WHO becoming tool of 'Chinese propaganda': Trump administration</a>

The World Health Organisation has become a tool of "Chinese propaganda", the Trump administration has alleged, asserting that the global health agency has lost all its credibility during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

&nbsp;

After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast Chinese health authorities have ordered new arrivals to undergo isolation and have made efforts to identify citizens coming from Russia Will sign executive order prohibiting immigration to US today: Trump ''I will be signing my Executive Order prohibiting immigration into our Country today,'' Trump tweeted.

After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast Chinese health authorities have ordered new arrivals to undergo isolation and have made efforts to identify citizens coming from Russia Will sign executive order prohibiting immigration to US today: Trump ''I will be signing my Executive Order prohibiting immigration into our Country today,'' Trump tweeted. Germany approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate BioNTech said it was developing the vaccine candidate, named BNT162, together with its partner, pharma giant Pfizer. US House to pass nearly $500 billion more in coronavirus aid on Thursday: Pelosi The US House of Representatives will pass Congress' latest coronavirus aid bill on Thursday, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said, paving the way for nearly $500 billion more in economic relief amid the pandemic. Death toll due to coronavirus rises to 5,391 in Iran; businesses open With a rapid increase in coronavirus cases in Iran, the officials have announced 94 new deaths due to COVID- 19. Since it's first case in February, Iran has struggled to flatten the curve. Instructed US Navy to shoot down Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea: Trump The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force. COVID-19 : Babies test positive in Japanese care centre While Japan has been trying their best to avoid large spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in-hospital transmissions. Fight climate change like coronavirus: United Nations The United Nations on Wednesday urged the world to fight climate change with the same determination as it is showing in the battle against COVID-19. Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day Spain had announced earlier that children who have been housebound for nearly six weeks can go out for walks from the weekend. WHO becoming tool of 'Chinese propaganda': Trump administration The World Health Organisation has become a tool of "Chinese propaganda", the Trump administration has alleged, asserting that the global health agency has lost all its credibility during the ongoing coronavirus crisis.

Top 10 world news today: China fears COVID-19 second wave, Trump set to prohibit immigration, and more!

In atheist China online gaming is practiced as a religion. The country is home to the world's largest gaming market. A market that fetches billions of dollars in revenue for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-coronavirus-outbreak-chinas-economy-contracts-job-losses-mount-294065">Chinese </a>economy.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-american-state-of-missouri-israeli-ngo-planning-class-action-lawsuit-against-china-294075">Also Read: After American state of Missouri, Israeli NGO planning class action lawsuit against China</a>

The Chinese state understands the economic power of the gaming industry and now it has come to understand how this industry could fuel dissent amid the ongoing pandemic because online games allow Chinese citizens to freely socialize with the outside world. It allows players to exchange ideas without any censors.

Not anymore, Beijing is extending its political censorship to online games. Chinese gamers will no longer be allowed to play games with foreigners - forget having a chat. Like most things in China, this feature is now forbidden. It all started with Beijing cracking the whip on a popular Nintendo game - animal crossing.

The social simulation game allowed users to freely interact with others even pro-democracy activists from Hong Kong. It included Joshua Wong who is now at the center of a storm.

Recently, Wong customized a scene in the game and made an inscription which read - "Free Hong Kong". Thousands of other users began leveraging the game to vent their discontent against the Communist regime in similar fashion.

Now, Beijing has decided to enforce a firewall that will blind Chinese players to any sort of dissent. Multiple laws are being drafted to expand the censorship if passed then online games will be subject to state surveillance.

Players will be able to log in only with their real names. Role-playing games will be banned and online gatherings will be under watch.

In atheist China online gaming is practiced as a religion. The country is home to the world's largest gaming market. A market that fetches billions of dollars in revenue for the Chinese economy.

In atheist China online gaming is practiced as a religion. The country is home to the world's largest gaming market. A market that fetches billions of dollars in revenue for the Chinese economy. Also Read: After American state of Missouri, Israeli NGO planning class action lawsuit against China The Chinese state understands the economic power of the gaming industry and now it has come to understand how this industry could fuel dissent amid the ongoing pandemic because online games allow Chinese citizens to freely socialize with the outside world. It allows players to exchange ideas without any censors. Not anymore, Beijing is extending its political censorship to online games. Chinese gamers will no longer be allowed to play games with foreigners - forget having a chat. Like most things in China, this feature is now forbidden. It all started with Beijing cracking the whip on a popular Nintendo game - animal crossing. The social simulation game allowed users to freely interact with others even pro-democracy activists from Hong Kong. It included Joshua Wong who is now at the center of a storm. Recently, Wong customized a scene in the game and made an inscription which read - "Free Hong Kong". Thousands of other users began leveraging the game to vent their discontent against the Communist regime in similar fashion. Now, Beijing has decided to enforce a firewall that will blind Chinese players to any sort of dissent. Multiple laws are being drafted to expand the censorship if passed then online games will be subject to state surveillance. Players will be able to log in only with their real names. Role-playing games will be banned and online gatherings will be under watch.

Joshua Wong effect: China set to disallow local gamers to play with foreigners

In 1957, the founding father of China, Mao Zedong made a declaration. The Chinese leader said he is not afraid of nuclear war.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-coronavirus-outbreak-chinas-economy-contracts-job-losses-mount-294065">Also Read:&nbsp;Amid coronavirus outbreak, China's economy contracts, job losses mount</a>

"There are 2.7 billion people in the world. It doesn't matter if some get killed," Mao said. Mao Zedong did not care for human life. His successors have followed in his path..

Sixty-three years on, the present Chinese leadership does not care for human life either. A pandemic that began in China has spread to the entire world. More than one lakh, 70 thousand people have died and now the world wants China to pay.

The American state of Missouri is taking China to court. In the past few weeks, there have been private lawsuits but this one is different. It is one government suing another. Elected officials in America are taking legal action against China. China didn't inform the World Health Organisation about human-to-human transmission.

Even when the local medical community had indications, Chinese leaders did little to curb the spread of the virus. They allowed thousands of people to travel in and out of Wuhan. The lawsuit has everything. It talks about how whistleblowers were punished for speaking out. It even talks about faulty medical equipment but, is this just to embarrass China?

Can a lawsuit like this achieve anything? Can China be sued in America? Technically, not because China enjoys sovereign immunity but, the lawmakers in Missouri are optimistic. China, meanwhile, was quick to dismiss the lawsuit. Beijing says the case is absurd and lacks factual or legal basis.

China may dismiss these lawsuits but these cases might not even stand the scrutiny of court but that's not stopping people from filing them.

In fact, an Israeli NGOo is planning a class action lawsuit. Shurat Hadin is a Tel Aviv based civil rights organisation. It usually focuses on terror victims. Now it is focusing on a different kind of terror, It plans to sue China for compensation.

When the outbreak began, China blocked the flow of information. Transparency could have saved lives but, China attempted a cover-up and even today it might be hiding what the world needs to know. Leaders are now demanding facts. What happened in December-- during the initial days of the outbreak? Angela Merkel wants to know.

The German Chancellor wants a full disclosure from China. Australia's foreign minister wants a global investigation. marise payne wants an investigation into the origin of the virus.&nbsp;

An investigation that is done independently and not by the World Health Organisation.

In 1957, the founding father of China, Mao Zedong made a declaration. The Chinese leader said he is not afraid of nuclear war. Also Read: Amid coronavirus outbreak, China's economy contracts, job losses mount "There are 2.

In 1957, the founding father of China, Mao Zedong made a declaration. The Chinese leader said he is not afraid of nuclear war. Also Read: Amid coronavirus outbreak, China's economy contracts, job losses mount "There are 2.7 billion people in the world. It doesn't matter if some get killed," Mao said. Mao Zedong did not care for human life. His successors have followed in his path.. Sixty-three years on, the present Chinese leadership does not care for human life either. A pandemic that began in China has spread to the entire world. More than one lakh, 70 thousand people have died and now the world wants China to pay. The American state of Missouri is taking China to court. In the past few weeks, there have been private lawsuits but this one is different. It is one government suing another. Elected officials in America are taking legal action against China. China didn't inform the World Health Organisation about human-to-human transmission. Even when the local medical community had indications, Chinese leaders did little to curb the spread of the virus. They allowed thousands of people to travel in and out of Wuhan. The lawsuit has everything. It talks about how whistleblowers were punished for speaking out. It even talks about faulty medical equipment but, is this just to embarrass China? Can a lawsuit like this achieve anything? Can China be sued in America? Technically, not because China enjoys sovereign immunity but, the lawmakers in Missouri are optimistic. China, meanwhile, was quick to dismiss the lawsuit. Beijing says the case is absurd and lacks factual or legal basis. China may dismiss these lawsuits but these cases might not even stand the scrutiny of court but that's not stopping people from filing them. In fact, an Israeli NGOo is planning a class action lawsuit. Shurat Hadin is a Tel Aviv based civil rights organisation. It usually focuses on terror victims. Now it is focusing on a different kind of terror, It plans to sue China for compensation. When the outbreak began, China blocked the flow of information. Transparency could have saved lives but, China attempted a cover-up and even today it might be hiding what the world needs to know. Leaders are now demanding facts. What happened in December-- during the initial days of the outbreak? Angela Merkel wants to know. The German Chancellor wants a full disclosure from China. Australia's foreign minister wants a global investigation. marise payne wants an investigation into the origin of the virus. An investigation that is done independently and not by the World Health Organisation.

After American state of Missouri, Israeli NGO planning class action lawsuit against China

China realises its on the backfoot due to the coronavirus pandemic, so, it's trying to contain the damage both at home and abroad.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018">Also Read:&nbsp;After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

The COVID-19 outbreak has dealt a big blow to the Chinese economy. For the first time, China has seen its first decline on record. The Chinese economy has contracted by 6.8 per cent. Itis the worst downturn since the 1960s.

The collapse had a direct impact on employment. According to a report in Bloomberg, eight million people in China lost their jobs in February alone. It is an estimate, however, the reality could be much different and worse. Two days ago, the Communist Party of China revealed its post coronavirus strategy.

The politburo is a group of 24 party members. It oversees the entire party. The Chinese state media reported about a meeting of the politburo. It reveals the concept of "six ensures" or "six guarantees". It is the list of policy priorities for China. Right at the top is unemployment. Job loss is a big worry for China.

The other priorities are resuming trade, the supply chain, food and energy security, and functioning of the grassroots. Why are we talking about this list? because it is an instruction to the party members and the bureaucracy. These will be the domestic priorities of China for the near future. At home in China, its all about job creation.

How does China plan to deal with the outside world? Beijing is using its own brand of aggressive and combative diplomacy. Whenever China has been questioned, it has responded with a denial.

Now the denials are not working. So, China is now resorting to bluster, even misinformation to respond.&nbsp;

These days, Beijing is taking the questions over reparations head-on, something not seen before. The spokespersons from the Chinese foreign ministry are flat out denying reparations claims.

China's way to get ahead of the narrative. The demand to hold China accountable is growing. All Beijing can do is to reject it. On Monday, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson appeared before the media to issue one more denial but, it didn't go as per plan.

Beijing's strategy is to deflect the blame by attacking America which is a poor strategy. The statement from the Chinese foreign ministry is laced with misinformation, flawed arguments and fake claims.

WION ran a fact-check.

Claim number-1: The H1N1 pandemic in 2009 began in America. That's wrong. According to a piece in the Lancet - the H1N1 virus emerged in Mexico. Next, China says the AIDS&nbsp;were discovered in America - another lie.

The earliest known case of HIV was detected back in 1959 from a man in Congo. Such statements only show China's desperation. During that briefing, Geng Shuang even raised the 2008 financial crisis. Repeating himself: no one asked America for accountability. It's a ridiculous argument to make.

The 2008 financial crisis was not a pandemic unlike China, America didn't try to cover it up. It didn't try to hide the patients nor, did it try to silence the whistleblowers.&nbsp;

In 2003, the world suffered due to the SARS outbreak. China tried to cover that up too. Seventeen years later, Beijing has done it again. SARS affected more than 20 countries.

The coronavirus pandemic has reached 185 countries and regions. All due to the criminal negligence of China and that's the reason why Beijing must be held accountable.&nbsp;

China realises its on the backfoot due to the coronavirus pandemic, so, it's trying to contain the damage both at home and abroad. Also Read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast The COVID-19 outbreak has dealt a big blow to the Chinese economy.

China realises its on the backfoot due to the coronavirus pandemic, so, it's trying to contain the damage both at home and abroad. Also Read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast The COVID-19 outbreak has dealt a big blow to the Chinese economy. For the first time, China has seen its first decline on record. The Chinese economy has contracted by 6.8 per cent. Itis the worst downturn since the 1960s. The collapse had a direct impact on employment. According to a report in Bloomberg, eight million people in China lost their jobs in February alone. It is an estimate, however, the reality could be much different and worse. Two days ago, the Communist Party of China revealed its post coronavirus strategy. The politburo is a group of 24 party members. It oversees the entire party. The Chinese state media reported about a meeting of the politburo. It reveals the concept of "six ensures" or "six guarantees". It is the list of policy priorities for China. Right at the top is unemployment. Job loss is a big worry for China. The other priorities are resuming trade, the supply chain, food and energy security, and functioning of the grassroots. Why are we talking about this list? because it is an instruction to the party members and the bureaucracy. These will be the domestic priorities of China for the near future. At home in China, its all about job creation. How does China plan to deal with the outside world? Beijing is using its own brand of aggressive and combative diplomacy. Whenever China has been questioned, it has responded with a denial. Now the denials are not working. So, China is now resorting to bluster, even misinformation to respond. These days, Beijing is taking the questions over reparations head-on, something not seen before. The spokespersons from the Chinese foreign ministry are flat out denying reparations claims. China's way to get ahead of the narrative. The demand to hold China accountable is growing. All Beijing can do is to reject it. On Monday, the Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson appeared before the media to issue one more denial but, it didn't go as per plan. Beijing's strategy is to deflect the blame by attacking America which is a poor strategy. The statement from the Chinese foreign ministry is laced with misinformation, flawed arguments and fake claims. WION ran a fact-check. Claim number-1: The H1N1 pandemic in 2009 began in America. That's wrong. According to a piece in the Lancet - the H1N1 virus emerged in Mexico. Next, China says the AIDS were discovered in America - another lie. The earliest known case of HIV was detected back in 1959 from a man in Congo. Such statements only show China's desperation. During that briefing, Geng Shuang even raised the 2008 financial crisis. Repeating himself: no one asked America for accountability. It's a ridiculous argument to make. The 2008 financial crisis was not a pandemic unlike China, America didn't try to cover it up. It didn't try to hide the patients nor, did it try to silence the whistleblowers. In 2003, the world suffered due to the SARS outbreak. China tried to cover that up too. Seventeen years later, Beijing has done it again. SARS affected more than 20 countries. The coronavirus pandemic has reached 185 countries and regions. All due to the criminal negligence of China and that's the reason why Beijing must be held accountable.

Amid coronavirus outbreak, China's economy contracts, job losses mount

The total number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997">coronavirus</a> cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/ordinance-brought-in-to-protect-health-workers-from-being-attacked-javadekar-294029">Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar</a>

The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said.

Mumbai on Wednesday reported nine more coronavirus cases in Dharavi with the number of cases rising to 189 in the city's slum area.

Twelve people have died due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which has greatly worried health workers in Maharashtra state which has seen the largest coronavirus cases in India.

In Tamil Nadu, thirty-three more people have tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,629. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state.

Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 11 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the number of cases rising to 437 of which 127 are active cases.

Bihar on Wednesday reported five more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 141.

Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh state health department reported no new case of COVID-19 infection&nbsp;today.

 
&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today. Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said.

The total number of coronavirus cases in India has risen to 20, 471 with 15,859 active cases, the health ministry said today. Also Read: Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked, says Javadekar The number of deaths due to the virus has risen to 652 with 1,486 new cases in the last 24 hours and 49 deaths, the ministry said. Mumbai on Wednesday reported nine more coronavirus cases in Dharavi with the number of cases rising to 189 in the city's slum area. Twelve people have died due to COVID-19 in Dharavi which has greatly worried health workers in Maharashtra state which has seen the largest coronavirus cases in India. In Tamil Nadu, thirty-three more people have tested positive for coronavirus taking the number of COVID-19 cases to 1,629. Eighteen people have died due to the virus in the state. Kerala chief minister Pinarayi Vijayan said that 11 new coronavirus cases were reported in the state today with the number of cases rising to 437 of which 127 are active cases. Bihar on Wednesday reported five more coronavirus cases taking the total number of cases in the state to 141. Meanwhile, Himachal Pradesh state health department reported no new case of COVID-19 infection today.

Confirmed coronavirus cases cross 20,000 in India; 652 dead

With a rapid increase in coronavirus&nbsp;cases in Iran, the officials have announced 94 new deaths due to COVID- 19. Since it's first case in February, Iran has struggled to flatten the curve. After these 94 new deaths were announced, the death toll increased to 5,391. The number of positive cases increased by 1,194, bringing the total number of cases to 85,996.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008">Spain records higher one-day COVID-19 death toll for second consecutive day</a>

The officials also believe that the number of new cases are decreasing. "The gradual downward trend in cases of infections has been maintained," said Kianoush Jahanpour, health ministry spokesman.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018" hreflang="en">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

Asking citizens to practice caution, President Hassan Rouhani, in his weekly cabinet meeting, said "If we arrogantly think that the job is done and we have won, then this would be the biggest problem that could affect us."

While the officials have announced that the cases of people infected in Iran was on the way down, the number of affected people is thought to be much higher than revealed.

Due to the pandemic, Iranian government also released more than 1,000 foreign prisoners, after concerns were raised about the spread of the virus in various detention centres across the country.&nbsp;

According to the official figures, Iran has carried more than 365,700 tests.

Iran was on a lockdown from March, however the government has now allowed many businesses to open, except for the high-risk business such as gyms and restaurants. Officials urged the citizens to avoid using public transport.

However, the government has faced backlash from the experts over this decision, as so far 19 taxi drivers have lost their lives to the virus, out of a total 317 taxi drivers and 147 bus drivers and metro workers who were tested positive.&nbsp;

With a rapid increase in coronavirus cases in Iran, the officials have announced 94 new deaths due to COVID- 19. Since it's first case in February, Iran has struggled to flatten the curve.

With a rapid increase in coronavirus cases in Iran, the officials have announced 94 new deaths due to COVID- 19. Since it's first case in February, Iran has struggled to flatten the curve. After these 94 new deaths were announced, the death toll increased to 5,391. The number of positive cases increased by 1,194, bringing the total number of cases to 85,996. Also read: Spain records higher one-day COVID-19 death toll for second consecutive day The officials also believe that the number of new cases are decreasing. "The gradual downward trend in cases of infections has been maintained," said Kianoush Jahanpour, health ministry spokesman. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast Asking citizens to practice caution, President Hassan Rouhani, in his weekly cabinet meeting, said "If we arrogantly think that the job is done and we have won, then this would be the biggest problem that could affect us." While the officials have announced that the cases of people infected in Iran was on the way down, the number of affected people is thought to be much higher than revealed. Due to the pandemic, Iranian government also released more than 1,000 foreign prisoners, after concerns were raised about the spread of the virus in various detention centres across the country. According to the official figures, Iran has carried more than 365,700 tests. Iran was on a lockdown from March, however the government has now allowed many businesses to open, except for the high-risk business such as gyms and restaurants. Officials urged the citizens to avoid using public transport. However, the government has faced backlash from the experts over this decision, as so far 19 taxi drivers have lost their lives to the virus, out of a total 317 taxi drivers and 147 bus drivers and metro workers who were tested positive.

Death toll due to coronavirus rises to 5,391 in Iran; businesses open

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country&nbsp;tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-wuhan-fears-of-second-coronavirus-wave-in-chinas-northeast-294018" hreflang="en">After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast</a>

A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred&nbsp;after a staff member tested positive on April 16.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/germanys-vaccines-regulator-approves-first-trial-of-covid-19-vaccine-candidate-294014" hreflang="en">Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate</a>

The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the&nbsp;children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation.

Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources.&nbsp;

While Japan has been trying its&nbsp;best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008" hreflang="en">Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day</a>

Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan.&nbsp;

The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights.

Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre.

After a state of emergency was announced in Japan by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on April 7, babies in the country tested positive for COVID-19 on Wednesday. Also read: After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast A total of eight children have been tested positive at a Tokyo care centre. The incident occurred after a staff member tested positive on April 16. Also read: Germany's vaccines regulator approves first trial of COVID-19 vaccine candidate The officials of Tokyo Saiseikai Central Hospital said the children have been hospitalised, and other kids, who tested negative, are still under observation. Tests have also been conducted for other 46 employees of the care centre, who have self-isolated themselves at home for the time being. The children who tested positive did not have high fever, according to local media sources. While Japan has been trying its best to avoid the spread of the virus, the country has been battling with positive cases that have been in hospital transmissions. Also read: Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day Shinzo Abe had announced a national emergency on April 7 as the number of positive cases were still rising even after two weeks of lockdown in big cities such as Tokyo and Osaka. The spread of infection has also been accelerating in other parts of Japan. The death toll in Japan now stands at 276, out of 11,137 positive COVID-19 cases. This tally excludes the positive cases from Diamond Princess cruise ship which was quarantined on the shore of Tokyo two months ago, and also the residents who returned back to Japan from China through charter flights. Following the lockdown and the rapid increase in cases, around 220 Indians, which includes 92 dependants, have reached out to the Indian Embassy in Tokyo with a request to be evacuated to India.

COVID-19 : Babies test positive in Japanese care centre

Amid the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-may-have-a-second-wave-of-coronavirus-later-this-year-predicts-health-official-293948">coronavirus crisis</a>, US President Donald Trump said that he has instructed the Navy "to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea."

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I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea.
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Trump's latest attack on Iran comes as the country announced it had successfully launched the first military satellite on Wednesday after it repeatedly failed to launch satellites in the past even as tensions escalated with the US in the Middle East.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-state-sues-chinas-leaders-over-coronavirus-293897">Also Read: US state sues China's leaders over coronavirus</a>

The Trump administration had earlier accused Iran of harassing its ships in the Gulf. The US Defence Department had accused Iran of "dangerous and provocative" actions in the Gulf. The US department had said that eleven Iran boats had "repeatedly crossed the bows and sterns" of US vessels in international waters.

Iran dismissed the US allegation, saying that it was a "Hollywood account of the encounter" while warning the US that any "miscalculation will receive a decisive response".

The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force. However, with the coronavirus sweeping the country Iran has accused the US of hurting it with sanctions at a time when its citizens are suffering.&nbsp;

Iran had rejected Trump's offer of ventilators, foreign minister Zarif said that the country would be "exporting ventilators in a few months, all you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially.”

Earlier, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had offered a helping hand to Iran, while claiming that the country’s infrastructure was not prepared to deal with an outbreak, but it was rejected by Iran which said it can manage alone.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, US President Donald Trump said that he has instructed the Navy "to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea.

Amid the coronavirus crisis, US President Donald Trump said that he has instructed the Navy "to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea." I have instructed the United States Navy to shoot down and destroy any and all Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea. — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) April 22, 2020 × Trump's latest attack on Iran comes as the country announced it had successfully launched the first military satellite on Wednesday after it repeatedly failed to launch satellites in the past even as tensions escalated with the US in the Middle East. Also Read: US state sues China's leaders over coronavirus The Trump administration had earlier accused Iran of harassing its ships in the Gulf. The US Defence Department had accused Iran of "dangerous and provocative" actions in the Gulf. The US department had said that eleven Iran boats had "repeatedly crossed the bows and sterns" of US vessels in international waters. Iran dismissed the US allegation, saying that it was a "Hollywood account of the encounter" while warning the US that any "miscalculation will receive a decisive response". The tensions between the two nations have escalated since a US drone strike killed Major General Qasem Soleimani, the former head of the country's elite Quds Force. However, with the coronavirus sweeping the country Iran has accused the US of hurting it with sanctions at a time when its citizens are suffering. Iran had rejected Trump's offer of ventilators, foreign minister Zarif said that the country would be "exporting ventilators in a few months, all you need to do is stop interfering in the affairs of other nations; mine especially.” Earlier, US secretary of state Mike Pompeo had offered a helping hand to Iran, while claiming that the country’s infrastructure was not prepared to deal with an outbreak, but it was rejected by Iran which said it can manage alone.

Instructed US Navy to shoot down Iranian gunboats if they harass our ships at sea: Trump

Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-rapid-testing-paused-due-to-issues-with-chinese-kits-293997"> coronavirus </a>epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/worst-is-yet-to-come-pandemic-could-peak-in-india-during-may-june-293963">Also Read:&nbsp;'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June</a>

The minister said the government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty.

"No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Javadekar said.

"They can be penalized for&nbsp;Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented."

"Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added.

"If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted.

On the resumption of flights, the minister said no decision has been taken it as yet.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, the ministry of home affairs said that strict action will be taken against those who obstruct the performance of the last rites of coronavirus warriors succumbing to COVID-19.

"Will ensure adequate security for healthcare professionals, medical staff and frontline workers to prevent violence against them," the MHA said.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the coronavirus epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks.

Union minister Prakash Javadekar while addressing the media after the cabinet meeting said today that health workers who are trying to save the country from the coronavirus epidemic are unfortunately facing attacks. Also Read: 'Worst is yet to come': Pandemic could peak in India during May-June The minister said the government has brought an ordinance to end violence against health workers which carries imprisonment from 6 months to 7 years if anyone is found guilty. "No incident of violence or harassment against them will be tolerated. An ordinance has been brought in, it will be implemented after the President's sanction," Javadekar said. "They can be penalized for Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 Lakh," the minister said, adding, "amendment to be made to the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897 and the ordinance will be implemented." "Such crime will now be cognizable and non-bailable. The investigation will be done within 30 days," Javadekar added. "If damage is done to the vehicles or clinics of healthcare workers, then a compensation amounting to twice the market value of the damaged property will be taken from the accused," the minister asserted. On the resumption of flights, the minister said no decision has been taken it as yet. Meanwhile, the ministry of home affairs said that strict action will be taken against those who obstruct the performance of the last rites of coronavirus warriors succumbing to COVID-19. "Will ensure adequate security for healthcare professionals, medical staff and frontline workers to prevent violence against them," the MHA said.

Ordinance brought in to protect health workers from being attacked: Javadekar

China's northeastern region bordering Russia has become the new focus of attention of authorities with fears of a second wave of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/spain-records-higher-one-day-coronavirus-death-toll-for-second-consecutive-day-294008">coronavirus </a>spreading in the country.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-pass-25-million-death-toll-rises-to-177415-293909">Also Read:&nbsp;Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415</a>

Harbin, the provincial capital of Heilongjiang has seen a spurt in cases with authorities clamping down on entry of vehicles registered elsewhere in an attempt to contain the virus.

Chinese health authorities have ordered new arrivals to undergo isolation and have made&nbsp;efforts to identify citizens coming from Russia.

The state media said suspected and confirmed cases would have be quarantined and tested before they enter the area.

Authorities in Harbin had earlier ordered 28-day quartine for all arrivals. In Heilongjiang, schools and universities have been shut. According to reports, 1,400 people have been identified for signs of COVID-19.

Heilongjiang had earlier reported over 537 confirmed coronavirus cases even as China recorded at 82,788 cases with 4,632 deaths, mostly in Hubei province in Wuhan.

According to reports, the seven new domestic infections reported nationwide on Wednesday were all in Heilongjiang area.

The influx of people from across the border in Russia has also lead authorities to close Suifenhe which is a border city.

China's northeastern region bordering Russia has become the new focus of attention of authorities with fears of a second wave of coronavirus spreading in the country.

China's northeastern region bordering Russia has become the new focus of attention of authorities with fears of a second wave of coronavirus spreading in the country. Also Read: Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415 Harbin, the provincial capital of Heilongjiang has seen a spurt in cases with authorities clamping down on entry of vehicles registered elsewhere in an attempt to contain the virus. Chinese health authorities have ordered new arrivals to undergo isolation and have made efforts to identify citizens coming from Russia. The state media said suspected and confirmed cases would have be quarantined and tested before they enter the area. Authorities in Harbin had earlier ordered 28-day quartine for all arrivals. In Heilongjiang, schools and universities have been shut. According to reports, 1,400 people have been identified for signs of COVID-19. Heilongjiang had earlier reported over 537 confirmed coronavirus cases even as China recorded at 82,788 cases with 4,632 deaths, mostly in Hubei province in Wuhan. According to reports, the seven new domestic infections reported nationwide on Wednesday were all in Heilongjiang area. The influx of people from across the border in Russia has also lead authorities to close Suifenhe which is a border city.

After Wuhan, fears of second coronavirus wave in China's northeast

Spain recorded a higher death toll for the second consecutive day today with 435 people dying of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/world-at-risk-of-biblical-famines-due-to-covid-19-says-un-293943">coronavirus&nbsp;</a>in the last 24 hours as the country continued to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/global-coronavirus-cases-pass-25-million-death-toll-rises-to-177415-293909">Also Read: Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415</a>

The total number of infections in the country has now risen to 208,000. The death toll due to COVID-19 in the country has now risen to 21,717. The country had announced on Tuesday that children who have been housebound for nearly six weeks can go out for walks from the weekend in an attempt to loosen restrictions.

"I will authorize children to go for a walk from Sunday," Health Minister Salvado said, it was a big step in the context of the lockdown which has been in place since March 14 with citizens not allowed to go out of the house.

"We are not in a phase of de-escalation (of the confinement measures), we are in a phase of confinement," Illa added even as government officials said the country was in the process of "slight easing of the lockdown".

"slight easing of the lockdown," government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero said.

Among the European countries, Italy has suffered the highest number of casualties with 24,648 fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource center's live tracker. There are now 183, 957 infected cases in Spain which is now higher than Spain.

US has the most number of infected cases with 825,306 people down with the virus and over 40,000 casutlites. France, Germany and the United Kingdom have also been hit hard with the virus with the death toll climbing into thousands in these countries.

In France, 20,796 people have died due to the virus with UK reporting 17, 337 deaths.&nbsp;

Spain recorded a higher death toll for the second consecutive day today with 435 people dying of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours as the country continued to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Spain recorded a higher death toll for the second consecutive day today with 435 people dying of the coronavirus in the last 24 hours as the country continued to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic. Also Read: Global coronavirus cases pass 2.5 million; death toll rises to 177,415 The total number of infections in the country has now risen to 208,000. The death toll due to COVID-19 in the country has now risen to 21,717. The country had announced on Tuesday that children who have been housebound for nearly six weeks can go out for walks from the weekend in an attempt to loosen restrictions. "I will authorize children to go for a walk from Sunday," Health Minister Salvado said, it was a big step in the context of the lockdown which has been in place since March 14 with citizens not allowed to go out of the house. "We are not in a phase of de-escalation (of the confinement measures), we are in a phase of confinement," Illa added even as government officials said the country was in the process of "slight easing of the lockdown". "slight easing of the lockdown," government spokeswoman Maria Jesus Montero said. Among the European countries, Italy has suffered the highest number of casualties with 24,648 fatalities, according to Johns Hopkins coronavirus resource center's live tracker. There are now 183, 957 infected cases in Spain which is now higher than Spain. US has the most number of infected cases with 825,306 people down with the virus and over 40,000 casutlites. France, Germany and the United Kingdom have also been hit hard with the virus with the death toll climbing into thousands in these countries. In France, 20,796 people have died due to the virus with UK reporting 17, 337 deaths.

Spain records higher one-day coronavirus death toll for second consecutive day

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