Why 11 million Brazilians think Earth is flat

The US Pacific Fleet said Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft was lased by the China's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinas-new-aircraft-carrier-enters-service-at-south-china-sea-base-268915">navy</a> destroyer with calling it "unsafe" and "unprofessional".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-navy-shows-off-new-warship-in-70th-anniversary-parade-212975">Also Read:&nbsp;Chinese navy shows off new warship in 70th anniversary parade</a>

The Pacific Fleet said the laster which "could not be seen by the naked eye was captured by a sensor onboard the P-8A."

"Weapons-grade lasers could potentially cause serious harm to aircrew and mariners, as well as ship and aircraft systems," it said.

The incident took place while the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-protests-to-china-over-border-intrusion-near-south-china-sea-271269">US Navy</a> P-8A Poseidon was flying in the airspace above international waters near Guam.

The Pacific Fleet in a statement said US Navy aircraft routinely flies in the Philippine Sea and "Navy aircraft and ships will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-to-build-four-nuclear-aircraft-carriers-to-catch-up-with-us-navy-report-195614">Also Read: China to build four nuclear aircraft carriers to catch up with US Navy</a>

The Poseidon aircraft is deployed in the Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan and conducts routine operations, maritime patrol and reconnaissance for the US 7th Fleet.

The US said the Chinese action was a violation of Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) and " inconsistent with the MOU between the Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of the PRC regarding rules of behaviour for safety of air and maritime encounters."

There is no reaction yet about the incident from the Chinese side.

The US Pacific Fleet said Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft was lased by the China's navy destroyer with calling it "unsafe" and "unprofessional". Also Read: Chinese navy shows off new warship in 70th anniversary parade The Pacific Fleet said the laster which "could not be seen by the naked eye was captured by a sensor onboard the P-8A.

The US Pacific Fleet said Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft was lased by the China's navy destroyer with calling it "unsafe" and "unprofessional". Also Read: Chinese navy shows off new warship in 70th anniversary parade The Pacific Fleet said the laster which "could not be seen by the naked eye was captured by a sensor onboard the P-8A." "Weapons-grade lasers could potentially cause serious harm to aircrew and mariners, as well as ship and aircraft systems," it said. The incident took place while the US Navy P-8A Poseidon was flying in the airspace above international waters near Guam. The Pacific Fleet in a statement said US Navy aircraft routinely flies in the Philippine Sea and "Navy aircraft and ships will continue to fly, sail and operate anywhere international law allows." Also Read: China to build four nuclear aircraft carriers to catch up with US Navy The Poseidon aircraft is deployed in the Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa, Japan and conducts routine operations, maritime patrol and reconnaissance for the US 7th Fleet. The US said the Chinese action was a violation of Code for Unplanned Encounters at Sea (CUES) and " inconsistent with the MOU between the Department of Defense and the Ministry of National Defense of the PRC regarding rules of behaviour for safety of air and maritime encounters." There is no reaction yet about the incident from the Chinese side.

Chinese navy destroyer used laser on Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft: US Pacific Fleet

Global oil prices crashed four per cent on Friday over the spread of coronavirus as panic gripped world <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-crash-as-global-markets-dive-over-spread-of-coronavirus-283314">markets</a> worldwide.

Oil prices are on track to record the biggest slump in more than four years.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/sensex-nifty-crash-as-global-markets-dive-over-spread-of-coronavirus-283314">Also Read:&nbsp;Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus</a>

Brent oil for April delivery sank as low as $50.05 per barrel while New York's WTI crude tumbled to $44.95.

Watch Video:

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US crude prices have fallen about 14 per cent for the week, the biggest weekly decline since May 2011.

All major Asian and European markets crashed on Friday as the virus spread to new countries and showed no signs of abating.

Markets in Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore and Seoul fell with the Dow recording biggest loss &nbsp;on record, shedding almost 1,200 points.

Global oil prices crashed four per cent on Friday over the spread of coronavirus as panic gripped world markets worldwide. Oil prices are on track to record the biggest slump in more than four years.

Global oil prices crashed four per cent on Friday over the spread of coronavirus as panic gripped world markets worldwide. Oil prices are on track to record the biggest slump in more than four years. Also Read: Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus Brent oil for April delivery sank as low as $50.05 per barrel while New York's WTI crude tumbled to $44.95. Watch Video: US crude prices have fallen about 14 per cent for the week, the biggest weekly decline since May 2011. All major Asian and European markets crashed on Friday as the virus spread to new countries and showed no signs of abating. Markets in Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore and Seoul fell with the Dow recording biggest loss on record, shedding almost 1,200 points.

Oil prices crash 4% over spread of coronavirus, on track for biggest weekly drop in over 4 years

Sensex dived more than 1,400 points today as share prices globally were on track for the worst week since the global financial crisis in 2008 with <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/italian-man-becomes-nigerias-first-case-of-coronavirus-health-minister-283241">coronavirus</a> taking a heavy toll on trade.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/carnage-on-dalal-street-stock-market-crash-wipes-off-rs-5-lakh-cr-investor-wealth-283262">Also Read: Carnage on Dalal Street - Stock market crash wipes off Rs 5 lakh cr investor wealth</a>

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-warns-citizens-against-travel-to-china-as-it-confirms-first-human-to-human-transmission-277773">Sensex </a>closed at 38,297, down 1,448 points and Nifty at 1,1201 plunging 431 points.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/south-korea-reports-2022-positive-cases-of-coronavirus-283277/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

A sharp sell-off on Wall Street took the Dow Jones and the Nasdaq down by over four percentage points with healthcare stocks being the worst-hit.

Oil prices sank to a new low of $50.05 per barrel as the virus sparked panic over crude demand.

European stock markets bled with Frankfurt's DAX 30 index diving 5.2 per cent.

Paris CAC 40 tumbled 4.6 per cent and Milan's FTSE MIB shed 3.9 per cent.&nbsp;

In Asia, Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore and Seoul were among the bourses that fell more than three per cent.

The currency took a hit with Australia's dollar, the Indonesian rupiah and the Indian rupee falling sharply.

The virus which originated from Wuhan in Hubei province in China has already claimed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide and spread to at least 45 countries.&nbsp;

Sensex dived more than 1,400 points today as share prices globally were on track for the worst week since the global financial crisis in 2008 with coronavirus taking a heavy toll on trade.

Sensex dived more than 1,400 points today as share prices globally were on track for the worst week since the global financial crisis in 2008 with coronavirus taking a heavy toll on trade. Also Read: Carnage on Dalal Street - Stock market crash wipes off Rs 5 lakh cr investor wealth The Sensex closed at 38,297, down 1,448 points and Nifty at 1,1201 plunging 431 points. Watch Video: A sharp sell-off on Wall Street took the Dow Jones and the Nasdaq down by over four percentage points with healthcare stocks being the worst-hit. Oil prices sank to a new low of $50.05 per barrel as the virus sparked panic over crude demand. European stock markets bled with Frankfurt's DAX 30 index diving 5.2 per cent. Paris CAC 40 tumbled 4.6 per cent and Milan's FTSE MIB shed 3.9 per cent. In Asia, Tokyo, Shanghai, Sydney, Singapore and Seoul were among the bourses that fell more than three per cent. The currency took a hit with Australia's dollar, the Indonesian rupiah and the Indian rupee falling sharply. The virus which originated from Wuhan in Hubei province in China has already claimed 2,856 people and infected more than 83,000 worldwide and spread to at least 45 countries.

Sensex, Nifty crash as global markets dive over spread of coronavirus

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mexico-allows-cruise-ship-to-dock-after-jamaica-cayman-islands-refuse-over-coronavirus-fears-283151">coronavirus</a>, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-vice-president-masoumeh-ebtekar-tests-positive-of-coronavirus-report-283167">Also Read: Iran vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tests positive for coronavirus</a>

As the virus continued to spread in Iran, several countries including the United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Kuwait, Iraq and Turkey suspended passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran. Authorities called off Friday prayers in the country as a preventive measure, the state broadcaster said.

Iran had announced the first death due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-could-get-out-of-control-if-affected-countries-dont-move-swiftly-warns-who-283185">virus</a> last Wednesday. In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus.

Watch Video:

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MP Mahmoud Sadeghi had confirmed that he had the virus while adding that he did not "have much hope of staying alive".

Qom is considered the epicentre of the outbreak but it hasn't been quarantined. To make matters worse, Iran's vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tested positive for&nbsp;coronavirus, local media reports said. Mojtaba Zolnour, head of parliament's national security and foreign affairs committee, is also infected and is in quarantine.&nbsp;

President Hassan Rouhani expressed confidence the authorities were on the right track.

"The reports I have received from the health minister are promising. We are moving towards controlling the virus," he said even as the United States said Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-accuses-chinese-trolls-of-sowing-virus-panic-283065">Also Read: Taiwan accuses Chinese trolls of sowing virus panic</a>

In neighbouring Iraq, five confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus were reported traced to Iran with religious tourism receiving a huge setback in the holy city of Karbala where hotels have closed and face masks have become common.

Meanwhile, WHO said the coronavirus was at a "decisive point" even as Saudi Arabia banned pilgrims from visiting Islam's holiest sites.

"We're at a decisive point," WHO chief Tedros said, adding," If you act aggressively now, you can contain this virus, you can prevent people getting sick, you can save lives."

"It's what's happening in the rest of the world that's now our greatest concern," Tedros added.

French President said: "We are facing a crisis, an epidemic that is coming."

The virus has now spread to at least 45 countries, infected 81,000 people. In China, over 2,760 have been killed due to the virus.

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the coronavirus, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases.

A prominent Iranian cleric and diplomat Hadi Khosroshahi died due to the coronavirus, the state broadcaster said as the death toll due to the disease shot up to 26 in the country with at least 245 confirmed cases. Also Read: Iran vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tests positive for coronavirus As the virus continued to spread in Iran, several countries including the United Arab Emirates, Armenia, Kuwait, Iraq and Turkey suspended passenger and cargo flights to and from Iran. Authorities called off Friday prayers in the country as a preventive measure, the state broadcaster said. Iran had announced the first death due to the virus last Wednesday. In a dramatic development last week, the country's deputy health minister Iraj Harirchi had admitted in a press conference that he too was suffering from the virus. Watch Video: MP Mahmoud Sadeghi had confirmed that he had the virus while adding that he did not "have much hope of staying alive". Qom is considered the epicentre of the outbreak but it hasn't been quarantined. To make matters worse, Iran's vice president Masoumeh Ebtekar tested positive for coronavirus, local media reports said. Mojtaba Zolnour, head of parliament's national security and foreign affairs committee, is also infected and is in quarantine. President Hassan Rouhani expressed confidence the authorities were on the right track. "The reports I have received from the health minister are promising. We are moving towards controlling the virus," he said even as the United States said Iran may have "suppressed vital details" about the outbreak. Also Read: Taiwan accuses Chinese trolls of sowing virus panic In neighbouring Iraq, five confirmed cases of the COVID-19 virus were reported traced to Iran with religious tourism receiving a huge setback in the holy city of Karbala where hotels have closed and face masks have become common. Meanwhile, WHO said the coronavirus was at a "decisive point" even as Saudi Arabia banned pilgrims from visiting Islam's holiest sites. "We're at a decisive point," WHO chief Tedros said, adding," If you act aggressively now, you can contain this virus, you can prevent people getting sick, you can save lives." "It's what's happening in the rest of the world that's now our greatest concern," Tedros added. French President said: "We are facing a crisis, an epidemic that is coming." The virus has now spread to at least 45 countries, infected 81,000 people. In China, over 2,760 have been killed due to the virus.

Prominent cleric dies as coronavirus death toll rises to 26 in Iran

A court in Germany has said that a 2015 law banning professional assisted suicide was "unconstitutional".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-parliament-backs-euthanasia-referendum-257711">Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum</a>

Assisted suicide services are no longer banned in the country. The German court rejected the five-year-old law which banned professionally assisted suicide.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pro-euthanasia-bills-get-green-light-in-portugal-negotiations-ahead-281991/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The landmark decision came after a group of terminally ill patients along with doctors challenged the law.

In Germany, the subject is all the more contentious because of the Nazi policy of killing hundreds of thousands of sick and disabled people during the 1930s and 40s.

The paragraph 217 was passed in November 2015 which penalized anyone who turned assisted suicide into a professional service. It required German patients to go abroad to end their lives. Under Paragraph 217, professionals falling foul of the law risked a fine or up to three years in prison.

Earlier, they would travel to Switzerland or the Netherlands or seek euthanasia via relatives. The law now stands repealed.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/countries-where-euthanasia-is-legal-281943">In Pics: Countries where euthanasia is legal</a>

The court ruled the prohibition of assisted suicide services violates the basic law and is void and that the country's constitution gives individuals the right to a self-determined death which includes the freedom to take one's own life and use assistance provided voluntarily by third parties.

The judge said those who wanted to offer suicide assistance must be legally allowed to without being forced. However, it set conditions through mandatory waiting periods or consumer protection standards for assisted suicide associations.

At the moment, assisted suicide is legal only in a few other places. Switzerland, the Netherlands, in the Australian state of Victoria and in some American states.

A court in Germany has said that a 2015 law banning professional assisted suicide was "unconstitutional". Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum Assisted suicide services are no longer banned in the country.

A court in Germany has said that a 2015 law banning professional assisted suicide was "unconstitutional". Also Read: New Zealand parliament backs euthanasia referendum Assisted suicide services are no longer banned in the country. The German court rejected the five-year-old law which banned professionally assisted suicide. Watch Video: The landmark decision came after a group of terminally ill patients along with doctors challenged the law. In Germany, the subject is all the more contentious because of the Nazi policy of killing hundreds of thousands of sick and disabled people during the 1930s and 40s. The paragraph 217 was passed in November 2015 which penalized anyone who turned assisted suicide into a professional service. It required German patients to go abroad to end their lives. Under Paragraph 217, professionals falling foul of the law risked a fine or up to three years in prison. Earlier, they would travel to Switzerland or the Netherlands or seek euthanasia via relatives. The law now stands repealed. In Pics: Countries where euthanasia is legal The court ruled the prohibition of assisted suicide services violates the basic law and is void and that the country's constitution gives individuals the right to a self-determined death which includes the freedom to take one's own life and use assistance provided voluntarily by third parties. The judge said those who wanted to offer suicide assistance must be legally allowed to without being forced. However, it set conditions through mandatory waiting periods or consumer protection standards for assisted suicide associations. At the moment, assisted suicide is legal only in a few other places. Switzerland, the Netherlands, in the Australian state of Victoria and in some American states.

German court overturns ban on assisted suicide

Indonesia's capital<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/nine-dead-after-flooding-in-jakarta-271461"> Jakarta</a> is once again submerged underwater after heavy rainfall. The bustling metropolitan city which is home to more than 10 million has received a month's worth of rain in just 24 hours.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/torrential-rains-flood-indonesias-jakarta-twice-in-one-year-283105">In Pics: Torrential rains flood Indonesia's Jakarta twice in one year</a>

Thousands of homes and building have been inundated due to the floods with even the presidential palace being hit with rains. The floods fury has paralysed the city's transport network as well.

Flood water has reached as high as 5 feet in some places.

"We checked on a submerged location and it's quite bad. The height reached almost half the height of houses and some people we have evacuated. We also provide food assistance for those who still choose to survive and thank god the process went smoothly," Bekasi police chief Wijanarko said.

The city had witnessed a major flood last month in which at least 66 people were killed.

This time the situation is about to get worse with the country's weather department predicting rain for the next two weeks.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesian-troops-flood-jakarta-streets-after-post-election-riots-220989">Jakarta</a> has been sinking at one of the fastest rates in the world. Scientists say that by 2050 parts of the megacity will be entirely submerged.

In fact, over the last 10 years, the city has sunk by around eight feet. Jakarta is notorious for its growing congestion and inadequate ground water recharge is only adding to the worries.

Moreover, it sits on swampy land with the Java sea lapping against it and &nbsp;it has almost 13 rivers running through it, so frequent flooding does not come as a surprise..

Officials say millions of dollars have been spent on dealing with the threat with Jakarta being on the brink of a disaster.

Indonesia's capital Jakarta is once again submerged underwater after heavy rainfall. The bustling metropolitan city which is home to more than 10 million has received a month's worth of rain in just 24 hours.

Indonesia's capital Jakarta is once again submerged underwater after heavy rainfall. The bustling metropolitan city which is home to more than 10 million has received a month's worth of rain in just 24 hours. In Pics: Torrential rains flood Indonesia's Jakarta twice in one year Thousands of homes and building have been inundated due to the floods with even the presidential palace being hit with rains. The floods fury has paralysed the city's transport network as well. Flood water has reached as high as 5 feet in some places. "We checked on a submerged location and it's quite bad. The height reached almost half the height of houses and some people we have evacuated. We also provide food assistance for those who still choose to survive and thank god the process went smoothly," Bekasi police chief Wijanarko said. The city had witnessed a major flood last month in which at least 66 people were killed. This time the situation is about to get worse with the country's weather department predicting rain for the next two weeks. Jakarta has been sinking at one of the fastest rates in the world. Scientists say that by 2050 parts of the megacity will be entirely submerged. In fact, over the last 10 years, the city has sunk by around eight feet. Jakarta is notorious for its growing congestion and inadequate ground water recharge is only adding to the worries. Moreover, it sits on swampy land with the Java sea lapping against it and it has almost 13 rivers running through it, so frequent flooding does not come as a surprise.. Officials say millions of dollars have been spent on dealing with the threat with Jakarta being on the brink of a disaster.

Major floods in Jakarta, several areas submerged

Imagine swiping right on any of the dating apps and see the door open to a romantic conversation which could quickly escalate to a chat on politics followed by a polite enquiry on which leader you like and who you may vote for.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/brad-pitt-clarifies-hes-not-a-tinder-user-im-not-even-really-sure-how-it-all-works-276685">Also Read: Brad Pitt clarifies he's not a Tinder user</a>

You may think it's normal people do talk politics as a way of getting to know each other but, beware!&nbsp;

That's a clever, intentional use of flirting for political gains dating apps - a fertile ground to connect with voters. It is becoming the next big digital tool for political campaigns in the US.

With the race for the White House heating up, candidates have turned to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/tech-news-tinder-launches-panic-button-to-strengthen-safety-276274">Tinder </a>and Bumble dating apps for votes.

The widely-used dating apps provide an excellent platform to undertake political conversions. Candidates are not ready to let go of any opportunity to influence a potential voter in a tight contest where every vote counts.&nbsp;

In fact, just days ahead of the Iowa caucus, Democratic presidential candidate - Elizebeth Warren was all ears to the&nbsp;"digital plan", when one of her supporters reportedly pitched the idea to her.

Elizabeth Warren is not the only one to get such volunteers, at least two women drew media attention in 2016 for using their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-requires-tinder-to-share-users-data-with-security-services-224023">Tinder</a> profiles to make pitches for Democrat Bernie Sanders.

The relaxed, intimate dating chat box is nothing like the politically charged debates and rallies, open to ideas, willing to listen, ready to spend time are qualities that would impress a potential date or, in this case, any political leader. After all, nearly half of those under-30 in America have used a dating app - a statistic that led New York Congressional candidate Suraj Patel to encourage his supporters to use dating apps such as Tinder to talk to as many people as possible. He called the strategy "Tinder banking".&nbsp;

Political campaigners say it is the modern way of reaching out to voters however experts classify it as taking advantage of people's expectation of a romantic connection.

Imagine swiping right on any of the dating apps and see the door open to a romantic conversation which could quickly escalate to a chat on politics followed by a polite enquiry on which leader you like and who you may vote for.

Imagine swiping right on any of the dating apps and see the door open to a romantic conversation which could quickly escalate to a chat on politics followed by a polite enquiry on which leader you like and who you may vote for. Also Read: Brad Pitt clarifies he's not a Tinder user You may think it's normal people do talk politics as a way of getting to know each other but, beware! That's a clever, intentional use of flirting for political gains dating apps - a fertile ground to connect with voters. It is becoming the next big digital tool for political campaigns in the US. With the race for the White House heating up, candidates have turned to Tinder and Bumble dating apps for votes. The widely-used dating apps provide an excellent platform to undertake political conversions. Candidates are not ready to let go of any opportunity to influence a potential voter in a tight contest where every vote counts. In fact, just days ahead of the Iowa caucus, Democratic presidential candidate - Elizebeth Warren was all ears to the "digital plan", when one of her supporters reportedly pitched the idea to her. Elizabeth Warren is not the only one to get such volunteers, at least two women drew media attention in 2016 for using their Tinder profiles to make pitches for Democrat Bernie Sanders. The relaxed, intimate dating chat box is nothing like the politically charged debates and rallies, open to ideas, willing to listen, ready to spend time are qualities that would impress a potential date or, in this case, any political leader. After all, nearly half of those under-30 in America have used a dating app - a statistic that led New York Congressional candidate Suraj Patel to encourage his supporters to use dating apps such as Tinder to talk to as many people as possible. He called the strategy "Tinder banking". Political campaigners say it is the modern way of reaching out to voters however experts classify it as taking advantage of people's expectation of a romantic connection.

In race for White House, US candidates turn to dating apps

Pakistan celebrated a bizarrely titled "Surprise Day" today. It is the day after the Indian Air Force(IAF)&nbsp;carried out the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-terror-camps-in-pakistan-being-reactivated-mha-informs-rajya-sabha-264891">Balakot </a>air strikes and decimated Pakistan-based terror camps.

The Pakistan government commemorated the day for their so-called resolve against "any aggression".

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/balakot-airstrike-anniversary-when-iaf-crossed-into-pakistan-and-bombed-jem-training-camps-282893">Also Read: Balakot airstrike anniversary -&nbsp;When IAF crossed into Pak&nbsp;and bombed JeM camps</a>

Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a tweet said: "27 Feb commemorates resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces against any aggression. The way we responded on this day is proof that any misadventure by enemies of Pakistan will always be defeated. Our adversaries will be surprised with our bold responses every time." It tagged the post with #SurpriseDay.

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27 Feb commemorates resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces against any aggression. The way we responded on this day is a proof that any misadventure by enemies of Pakistan will always be defeated. Our adversaries will be surprised with our bold responses every time.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SurpriseDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SurpriseDay</a>
— DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) <a href="https://twitter.com/OfficialDGISPR/status/1232958638995709952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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It also released a special documentary over its&nbsp;claims on what happened during the three-day standoff with India. The day&nbsp;also included performances by Pakistani artists who displayed paintings at an art gallery in the presence of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.

ISPR branded the day as "Operation Swift Retort" saying that a "plane was shot down during a dogfight between Pakistani and Indian Air Forces in February last year". The jingoism was quite visible.

There were also celebrations held at Pakistan Air Force headquarters in Islamabad. An extravagant air show was also conducted to showcase the&nbsp;"valour" of Pak Air Force.

Watch Video:

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/VHjVQ1ShV8o" width="560"></iframe>

On Twitter, Pakistan's cyber warriors ensured it was the trending topic of the day with the hashtag Surprise Day. Coronavirus was a close second.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SurpriseDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SurpriseDay</a> 
We surprised India and destroyed their motives. Indian claims were destroyed on 27 Feb 2019.<a href="https://twitter.com/Khokhar527?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Khokhar527</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/TeamPakGuardian?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TeamPakGuardian</a>
— ABH.Khokhar (@Khokhar527) <a href="https://twitter.com/Khokhar527/status/1232978299208568832?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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27th Feb - A Golden Day to remember<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SurpriseDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SurpriseDay</a> <a href="https://t.co/y3UmNSKYns">pic.twitter.com/y3UmNSKYns</a>
— Ayesha Nauman (@IIntellect97) <a href="https://twitter.com/IIntellect97/status/1232960400246870016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Pakistan celebrated a bizarrely titled "Surprise Day" today. It is the day after the Indian Air Force(IAF) carried out the Balakot air strikes and decimated Pakistan-based terror camps.

Pakistan celebrated a bizarrely titled "Surprise Day" today. It is the day after the Indian Air Force(IAF) carried out the Balakot air strikes and decimated Pakistan-based terror camps. The Pakistan government commemorated the day for their so-called resolve against "any aggression". Also Read: Balakot airstrike anniversary - When IAF crossed into Pak and bombed JeM camps Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) in a tweet said: "27 Feb commemorates resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces against any aggression. The way we responded on this day is proof that any misadventure by enemies of Pakistan will always be defeated. Our adversaries will be surprised with our bold responses every time." It tagged the post with #SurpriseDay. 27 Feb commemorates resolve of Pakistan Armed Forces against any aggression. The way we responded on this day is a proof that any misadventure by enemies of Pakistan will always be defeated. Our adversaries will be surprised with our bold responses every time.#SurpriseDay — DG ISPR (@OfficialDGISPR) February 27, 2020 × It also released a special documentary over its claims on what happened during the three-day standoff with India. The day also included performances by Pakistani artists who displayed paintings at an art gallery in the presence of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. ISPR branded the day as "Operation Swift Retort" saying that a "plane was shot down during a dogfight between Pakistani and Indian Air Forces in February last year". The jingoism was quite visible. There were also celebrations held at Pakistan Air Force headquarters in Islamabad. An extravagant air show was also conducted to showcase the "valour" of Pak Air Force. Watch Video: On Twitter, Pakistan's cyber warriors ensured it was the trending topic of the day with the hashtag Surprise Day. Coronavirus was a close second. #SurpriseDay We surprised India and destroyed their motives. Indian claims were destroyed on 27 Feb 2019.@Khokhar527 @TeamPakGuardian — ABH.Khokhar (@Khokhar527) February 27, 2020 × 27th Feb - A Golden Day to remember#SurpriseDay pic.twitter.com/y3UmNSKYns — Ayesha Nauman (@IIntellect97) February 27, 2020 ×

A year after Balakot air strikes, Imran's Pakistan government celebrates 'Surprise Day'

Mexico has allowed a cruise ship carrying 6,000 people to dock after it was refused entry by Jamaica and Cayman Islands after a crew member tested positive for regular seasonal flu.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-arabia-suspends-mecca-and-medinas-religious-trips-over-coronavirus-fears-282984">Also Read: Saudi Arabia suspends Mecca and Medina's religious trips over coronavirus fears</a>

The MSC Meraviglia arrived off Cozumel late Wednesday after receiving authorization from the local health authorities, MSC Cruises said in a statement.

Watch Video:

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/coronavirus-in-iran-holds-threat-to-pakistan-coronavirus-outbreak-283093/embed" width="560" height="350" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" autoplay=1 allowfullscreen></iframe></div>

The cruise ship said it was "extremely disappointed" on Jamaican authorities after it delayed ship clearance despite being shown medical records.

"In both instances, the ship was effectively turned away simply based on fears," MSC said.&nbsp;

"No other cases of type A influenza have been reported on board MSC Meraviglia. Moreover, no cases of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/taiwan-accuses-chinese-trolls-of-sowing-virus-panic-283065">COVID-19</a> virus have been reported on board MSC Meraviglia or any other ship in MSC Cruises' fleet," it added.

Cruise ships have become the focus of attention worldwide after British-registered Diamond Princess confirmed several cases of coronavirus with three deaths since the ship docked at a Japanese port on February 3.

MSC Cruises said the person with the seasonal flu was isolated and no other case of type A influenza was discovered on board.

The crew member who was diagnosed with common seasonal flu is in a stable condition, receiving anti-viral treatment and medication, and is now free of fever and nearly recovered," it said.

At least 30 countries have reported cases of coronavirus with the disease now spreading to Latin America including South Korea, Iran and Italy.

In China, at least 80,000 people have been infected with over 2,700 killed ever since it was first reported on December 31.

Mexico has allowed a cruise ship carrying 6,000 people to dock after it was refused entry by Jamaica and Cayman Islands after a crew member tested positive for regular seasonal flu.

Mexico has allowed a cruise ship carrying 6,000 people to dock after it was refused entry by Jamaica and Cayman Islands after a crew member tested positive for regular seasonal flu. Also Read: Saudi Arabia suspends Mecca and Medina's religious trips over coronavirus fears The MSC Meraviglia arrived off Cozumel late Wednesday after receiving authorization from the local health authorities, MSC Cruises said in a statement. Watch Video: The cruise ship said it was "extremely disappointed" on Jamaican authorities after it delayed ship clearance despite being shown medical records. "In both instances, the ship was effectively turned away simply based on fears," MSC said. "No other cases of type A influenza have been reported on board MSC Meraviglia. Moreover, no cases of COVID-19 virus have been reported on board MSC Meraviglia or any other ship in MSC Cruises' fleet," it added. Cruise ships have become the focus of attention worldwide after British-registered Diamond Princess confirmed several cases of coronavirus with three deaths since the ship docked at a Japanese port on February 3. MSC Cruises said the person with the seasonal flu was isolated and no other case of type A influenza was discovered on board. The crew member who was diagnosed with common seasonal flu is in a stable condition, receiving anti-viral treatment and medication, and is now free of fever and nearly recovered," it said. At least 30 countries have reported cases of coronavirus with the disease now spreading to Latin America including South Korea, Iran and Italy. In China, at least 80,000 people have been infected with over 2,700 killed ever since it was first reported on December 31.

Mexico allows cruise ship to dock after Jamaica, Cayman Islands refuse over coronavirus fears

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/icc-womens-t20-world-cup-shafali-verma-stars-as-india-qualify-for-semifinals-283099">Also Read: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals</a>

"Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup," Sehwag said on Twitter.

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Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi finals of the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/T20WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#T20WorldCup</a> 
Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein. <a href="https://t.co/euq2368NTF">pic.twitter.com/euq2368NTF</a>
— Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) <a href="https://twitter.com/virendersehwag/status/1232946716678270976?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 27, 2020</a></blockquote>
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"Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein(enjoying watching the performance of the girls).

India beat New Zealand by three runs to enter the last four of the tournament. The Indian side has been unbeaten in the women's World Cup T20I so far.&nbsp;

Shafali Verma was declared the "Player of the Match" after her match-winning performance hitting 46 runs in 34 balls with four boundaries and a six.

Indian batters had posted a slightly below-par score of 138/8 in 20 overs but the Indian bowlers defended the target with each bowler picking up wickets.

Shikha Pandey was the star bowler in the end as she throttled the Kiwis in the last over with just four runs needed for victory. Pandey bowled a yorker to get Jensen run out off the final ball after being hit for a boundary in the previous ball.

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia.

Former opening batsman Virender Sehwag lauded India's women's cricket team for holding their nerves and beating New Zealand in the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup in Australia. Also Read: Shafali Verma stars as India qualify for semifinals "Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi-finals of the T20 World Cup," Sehwag said on Twitter. Wah bhai Wah ! Great effort by the girls to hold on to their nerves and beat New Zealand and qualify for the semi finals of the #T20WorldCup Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein. pic.twitter.com/euq2368NTF — Virender Sehwag (@virendersehwag) February 27, 2020 × "Shafali Varma is a rockstar. Anand aa raha hai ladkiyon ka performance dekhne mein(enjoying watching the performance of the girls). India beat New Zealand by three runs to enter the last four of the tournament. The Indian side has been unbeaten in the women's World Cup T20I so far. Shafali Verma was declared the "Player of the Match" after her match-winning performance hitting 46 runs in 34 balls with four boundaries and a six. Indian batters had posted a slightly below-par score of 138/8 in 20 overs but the Indian bowlers defended the target with each bowler picking up wickets. Shikha Pandey was the star bowler in the end as she throttled the Kiwis in the last over with just four runs needed for victory. Pandey bowled a yorker to get Jensen run out off the final ball after being hit for a boundary in the previous ball.

Wah bhai Wah! says Sehwag after India beat New Zealand in ICC Women's T20 World Cup

Travel restrictions to China because of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;have come just as Apple Inc's&nbsp;engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">iPhones</a>, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters.

High-volume manufacturing is not scheduled until summer, but the first months of the year are when Apple irons out assembly processes with partners such as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">Foxconn</a>, two former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">Apple</a>&nbsp;employees said.

Also see: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/impact-of-coronavirus-on-global-economy-278907">How coronavirus is affecting the global economy</a>

"They probably have one assembly line they're trying things out on," said one of the former employees who asked not to be named discussing production matters.

"Are Apple's engineers with the Foxconn engineers? If they are, they're probably making progress. But if they're not, if they're quarantined, that could be bad."

While <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">Apple</a>&nbsp;uses other contract manufacturers such as Wistron Corp to make some <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">iPhones</a>, Taiwan's Foxconn tends to handle the introduction of new models because its capabilities are the most advanced, supply chain experts said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/apple-to-launch-first-retail-store-in-india-next-year-283115">Apple to launch first retail store in India next year</a>

Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics maker, delayed reopening key iPhone factories in Shenzhen and Zhengzhou after the Lunar New Year holiday but hopes to resume half of its Chinese production by the end of February.

Senior Foxconn officials who have been working remotely from Taipei since the holiday have not yet returned to China on a large scale, a person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, speaking of company officials generally.

Apple declined to comment. Foxconn Technology Group said in an emailed statement on Tuesday that the company is following all legally required health and safety practices at its factories to protect employee welfare.

"Consistent with this, we are taking a cautious approach in the implementation of our post-holiday production schedules in each of our facilities in China," the company said.

Last week, Apple warned investors it was unlikely to meet revenue targets for the first three months of 2020 and that global iPhone supplies would be limited as manufacturing sites in China were not ramping up production as quickly as expected.

Foxconn said this month that the coronavirus outbreak would lower its revenue this year.

Earlier this month, United Airlines, which has disclosed that Apple is a major customer, said it was cancelling all fights to China until late April. Apple, meanwhile, said on January&nbsp;28 that it was restricting employee to travel to China to "business-critical" situations.

Travel restrictions to China because of the coronavirus have come just as Apple Inc's engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new iPhones, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters.

Travel restrictions to China because of the coronavirus have come just as Apple Inc's engineers usually jet off to Asia to perfect the production of this fall's new iPhones, former employees and supply chain experts told Reuters. High-volume manufacturing is not scheduled until summer, but the first months of the year are when Apple irons out assembly processes with partners such as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co's Foxconn, two former Apple employees said. Also see: How coronavirus is affecting the global economy "They probably have one assembly line they're trying things out on," said one of the former employees who asked not to be named discussing production matters. "Are Apple's engineers with the Foxconn engineers? If they are, they're probably making progress. But if they're not, if they're quarantined, that could be bad." While Apple uses other contract manufacturers such as Wistron Corp to make some iPhones, Taiwan's Foxconn tends to handle the introduction of new models because its capabilities are the most advanced, supply chain experts said. Also read: Apple to launch first retail store in India next year Foxconn, the world's largest contract electronics maker, delayed reopening key iPhone factories in Shenzhen and Zhengzhou after the Lunar New Year holiday but hopes to resume half of its Chinese production by the end of February. Senior Foxconn officials who have been working remotely from Taipei since the holiday have not yet returned to China on a large scale, a person with knowledge of the matter told Reuters, speaking of company officials generally. Apple declined to comment. Foxconn Technology Group said in an emailed statement on Tuesday that the company is following all legally required health and safety practices at its factories to protect employee welfare. "Consistent with this, we are taking a cautious approach in the implementation of our post-holiday production schedules in each of our facilities in China," the company said. Last week, Apple warned investors it was unlikely to meet revenue targets for the first three months of 2020 and that global iPhone supplies would be limited as manufacturing sites in China were not ramping up production as quickly as expected. Foxconn said this month that the coronavirus outbreak would lower its revenue this year. Earlier this month, United Airlines, which has disclosed that Apple is a major customer, said it was cancelling all fights to China until late April. Apple, meanwhile, said on January 28 that it was restricting employee to travel to China to "business-critical" situations.

Coronavirus clouds Apple's timeline for new iPhones

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