An ancient river landscape has been revealed due to global warming. It was preserved underneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet for millions of years.&nbsp;

A new study, published on Tuesday (Oct 24) in Nature Communications, has unveiled that the landscape is bigger than Belgium.&nbsp;

The study further states that the land space has remained untouched for potentially more than 34 million years.&nbsp;

However, the British and American researchers have warned that human-led global warming could threaten to expose it.&nbsp;

Stewart Jamieson, a glaciologist at the UK's Durham University and the lead author of the study, told news agency AFP: "It is an undiscovered landscape - no one's laid eyes on it."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/supercomputer-simulations-unveils-new-mysteries-of-universe-651119">Scientists have created an 'identical twin' universe using the biggest supercomputer</a>&nbsp;

"What is exciting is that it's been hiding there in plain sight," Jamieson added. He said that the researchers had not used new data, only a new approach.&nbsp;

Jamieson said that the land underneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet is less well-known than the surface of Mars.&nbsp;

He said that the main way to "see" beneath it is by using the radio-echo-sounding technique, which means sending radio waves from overhead into the ice and analysing the echoes.&nbsp;

However,&nbsp;this comes with a challenge as doing this across the continent would pose a massive challenge as Antarctica is bigger than Europe.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/californias-supervolcano-shows-signs-of-activity-over-2000-earthquakes-rumble-beneath-valley-650724">California's supervolcano shows signs of activity, over 2,000 earthquakes rumble beneath valley</a>

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This graphic was published by&nbsp;Nature Communications.&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Alaska Air pilot in aborted flight said he used 'magic' mushrooms, documents show

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Jamieson said that the researchers then used existing satellite images of the surface to "trace out the valleys and ridges" more than two kilometres below.&nbsp;

He added that the undulating ice surface is a "ghost image" that drapes gently over these spikier features.&nbsp;

An image emerged of a river-carved landscape of plunging valleys and sharply peaked hills when they combined with radio-echo-sounding data. It was similar to some currently on the Earth's surface.&nbsp;

Jamieson said that it was like looking out the window of a long-haul flight and seeing a mountainous region below. He said that the area was once home to trees, forests and probably animals, but then it got "frozen in time" after the ice came along.&nbsp;

The researchers are not sure when sunshine last touched this hidden world, but they assume that it has been at least 14 million years.&nbsp;

An ancient river landscape has been revealed due to global warming. It was preserved underneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet for millions of years. A new study, published on Tuesday (Oct 24) in Nature Communications, has unveiled that the landscape is bigger than Belgium.

An ancient river landscape has been revealed due to global warming. It was preserved underneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet for millions of years. A new study, published on Tuesday (Oct 24) in Nature Communications, has unveiled that the landscape is bigger than Belgium. The study further states that the land space has remained untouched for potentially more than 34 million years. However, the British and American researchers have warned that human-led global warming could threaten to expose it. Stewart Jamieson, a glaciologist at the UK's Durham University and the lead author of the study, told news agency AFP: "It is an undiscovered landscape - no one's laid eyes on it." Also read: Scientists have created an 'identical twin' universe using the biggest supercomputer "What is exciting is that it's been hiding there in plain sight," Jamieson added. He said that the researchers had not used new data, only a new approach. Jamieson said that the land underneath the East Antarctic Ice Sheet is less well-known than the surface of Mars. He said that the main way to "see" beneath it is by using the radio-echo-sounding technique, which means sending radio waves from overhead into the ice and analysing the echoes. However, this comes with a challenge as doing this across the continent would pose a massive challenge as Antarctica is bigger than Europe. Also read: California's supervolcano shows signs of activity, over 2,000 earthquakes rumble beneath valley This graphic was published by Nature Communications. Watch: Alaska Air pilot in aborted flight said he used 'magic' mushrooms, documents show × Jamieson said that the researchers then used existing satellite images of the surface to "trace out the valleys and ridges" more than two kilometres below. He added that the undulating ice surface is a "ghost image" that drapes gently over these spikier features. An image emerged of a river-carved landscape of plunging valleys and sharply peaked hills when they combined with radio-echo-sounding data. It was similar to some currently on the Earth's surface. Jamieson said that it was like looking out the window of a long-haul flight and seeing a mountainous region below. He said that the area was once home to trees, forests and probably animals, but then it got "frozen in time" after the ice came along. The researchers are not sure when sunshine last touched this hidden world, but they assume that it has been at least 14 million years.

This river landscape was 'frozen in time', hidden for millions of years, till global warming revealed it

A historic drought in South America, along the Amazon River, has revealed ancient human faces, which were carved into stone around 2,000 years ago.&nbsp;

The unusually sparse rainfall in Brazil led to an alarming drop in the water levels of the Amazon River, hence, revealing the carvings of animals and other forms on the shores of the Rio Negro.&nbsp;

This is not the first case, a few of these rock carvings had been spotted previously and archaeologists have been aware of the carved faces for years.&nbsp;

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The low level of water has unearthed previously unseen carvings as the researchers are intrigued by a new variety of them which has given them insights into their origins. &nbsp;

The petroglyphs found at the Ponto das Lajes archaeological site, or Place of Slabs, appear to have been created by indigenous people before contact with European explorers.&nbsp;

The Ponto das Lajes is on the north shore of the Amazon near where the Rio Negro and Solimoes rivers join.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/californias-supervolcano-shows-signs-of-activity-over-2000-earthquakes-rumble-beneath-valley-650724">California's supervolcano shows signs of activity, over 2,000 earthquakes rumble beneath valley</a>&nbsp;

Archaeologist Jaime Oliveira&nbsp;was cited by Reuters as saying, "The engravings are prehistoric, or precolonial. We cannot date them exactly, but based on evidence of human occupation of the area, we believe they are about 1,000 to 2,000 years old. What we're seeing here are representations of anthropomorphic figures." &nbsp;

Oliveira said the carvings were first seen there in 2010, but this year's drought has been more severe, with the Rio Negro dropping 15 metres (49.2 feet) since July, exposing vast expanses of rocks and sand where there had been no beaches.

"This time we found not just more carvings but the sculpture of a human face cut into the rock," said Oliveira, who works for the National Historic and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) that oversees the preservation of historic sites.

A historic drought in South America, along the Amazon River, has revealed ancient human faces, which were carved into stone around 2,000 years ago. The unusually sparse rainfall in Brazil led to an alarming drop in the water levels of the Amazon River, hence, revealing the carvings of animals and other forms on the shores of the Rio Negro.

A historic drought in South America, along the Amazon River, has revealed ancient human faces, which were carved into stone around 2,000 years ago. The unusually sparse rainfall in Brazil led to an alarming drop in the water levels of the Amazon River, hence, revealing the carvings of animals and other forms on the shores of the Rio Negro. This is not the first case, a few of these rock carvings had been spotted previously and archaeologists have been aware of the carved faces for years. Also read: Scientists unveil recreation of 500-year old sacrificial Incan girl in Peru The low level of water has unearthed previously unseen carvings as the researchers are intrigued by a new variety of them which has given them insights into their origins. The petroglyphs found at the Ponto das Lajes archaeological site, or Place of Slabs, appear to have been created by indigenous people before contact with European explorers. The Ponto das Lajes is on the north shore of the Amazon near where the Rio Negro and Solimoes rivers join. Also read: California's supervolcano shows signs of activity, over 2,000 earthquakes rumble beneath valley Archaeologist Jaime Oliveira was cited by Reuters as saying, "The engravings are prehistoric, or precolonial. We cannot date them exactly, but based on evidence of human occupation of the area, we believe they are about 1,000 to 2,000 years old. What we're seeing here are representations of anthropomorphic figures." Oliveira said the carvings were first seen there in 2010, but this year's drought has been more severe, with the Rio Negro dropping 15 metres (49.2 feet) since July, exposing vast expanses of rocks and sand where there had been no beaches. "This time we found not just more carvings but the sculpture of a human face cut into the rock," said Oliveira, who works for the National Historic and Artistic Heritage Institute (IPHAN) that oversees the preservation of historic sites.

Drought reveals ancient rock carvings of human faces along Amazon River

Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, The Jerusalem Post reported citing a video released by Israel.&nbsp;

During the attack, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-updates-50-palestinians-killed-in-one-hour-in-gaza-no-aid-entered-on-tuesday-says-un-650884">Hamas militants</a> killed more than 1,400 people, as per the Israeli authorities, and took around 200 people as hostages, some of whom have now been released.&nbsp;

Israel's security agency Shin Bet and the country's police force shared the footage, which claims to feature several detained Hamas militants, who were being interrogated.&nbsp;

The video appears to show an unnamed Hamas militant who said that he was given orders to "kidnap as many as possible" during the attacks.&nbsp;

In the video, the man who was being interrogated said that Hamas offered property and money for each person captured. This was mentioned by a company commander of the Al-Qassam Brigades.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-considering-inundating-hamas-underground-tunnels-before-ground-invasion-report-651029">Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media.

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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🔴 YOU MUST WATCH THIS! 🔴 
 
Captured Hamas terrorists ADMIT crimes against humanity! 
 
"We were told whoever brings a hostage gets $10,000" <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/HamasTerrorists?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#HamasTerrorists</a> <a href="https://t.co/9JyntYmwd3">pic.twitter.com/9JyntYmwd3</a>
— Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) <a href="https://twitter.com/HananyaNaftali/status/1716897912775684373?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 24, 2023</a></blockquote>
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As quoted by The Jerusalem Post, one person said in the video: "The instructions were to kidnap women and children". Meanwhile, another described an encounter with a dead body, saying: "Her body was lying on the floor. I shot her, and my commander yelled at me for wasting bullets on a dead body." &nbsp;

They said that they were asked not to distinguish between civilians and soldiers, making it clear that when it came to murder, they were not to distinguish between the two.

"When we finished, we burned two houses," said another Hamas militant.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/greta-thunberg-kicked-out-of-israeli-textbooks-after-stand-with-gaza-row-651005">Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row</a>&nbsp;

"Two [terrorists] went into the house ... we heard voices inside. Another two came in. There was one lying on the floor next to the door. I don't know if he was dead, but there was blood next to him. Inside there was one wounded man... I think a whole family. In their pyjamas. The wounded man was in his underwear. A woman came out wearing a dress... then another with a dress. [Then] a boy and a girl," one of the militants described entering a house after his comrades went inside.&nbsp;

"We went to the next house. From there, they took out a woman. An old woman," he added.&nbsp;

On being asked if family members were used as human shields, the Hamas militants answered "Yes".&nbsp;

One of the terrorists, who was at Be'eri, told interrogators: "When I entered the town, I saw two [terrorists] on a motorbike. They took a woman about 60-65 years old [with them] on the motorbike."&nbsp;

He said that they took the woman to Gaza when the interrogator asked about her.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

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Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, The Jerusalem Post reported citing a video released by Israel.

Israel alleged that Hamas, a Palestine-based group which has been designated a terrorist organisation by many countries, offered $10,000 and an apartment to its militants if they brought a hostage back to Gaza with them when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, The Jerusalem Post reported citing a video released by Israel. During the attack, Hamas militants killed more than 1,400 people, as per the Israeli authorities, and took around 200 people as hostages, some of whom have now been released. Israel's security agency Shin Bet and the country's police force shared the footage, which claims to feature several detained Hamas militants, who were being interrogated. The video appears to show an unnamed Hamas militant who said that he was given orders to "kidnap as many as possible" during the attacks. In the video, the man who was being interrogated said that Hamas offered property and money for each person captured. This was mentioned by a company commander of the Al-Qassam Brigades. Also read: Israel considering inundating Hamas’ underground tunnels before ground invasion Disclaimer: WION cannot independently verify the authenticity of photos and videos shared on social media. Watch the video here: 🔴 YOU MUST WATCH THIS! 🔴 Captured Hamas terrorists ADMIT crimes against humanity! "We were told whoever brings a hostage gets $10,000" #HamasTerrorists pic.twitter.com/9JyntYmwd3 — Hananya Naftali (@HananyaNaftali) October 24, 2023 × As quoted by The Jerusalem Post, one person said in the video: "The instructions were to kidnap women and children". Meanwhile, another described an encounter with a dead body, saying: "Her body was lying on the floor. I shot her, and my commander yelled at me for wasting bullets on a dead body." They said that they were asked not to distinguish between civilians and soldiers, making it clear that when it came to murder, they were not to distinguish between the two. "When we finished, we burned two houses," said another Hamas militant. Also read: Greta Thunberg kicked out of Israeli textbooks after 'stand with Gaza' row "Two [terrorists] went into the house ... we heard voices inside. Another two came in. There was one lying on the floor next to the door. I don't know if he was dead, but there was blood next to him. Inside there was one wounded man... I think a whole family. In their pyjamas. The wounded man was in his underwear. A woman came out wearing a dress... then another with a dress. [Then] a boy and a girl," one of the militants described entering a house after his comrades went inside. "We went to the next house. From there, they took out a woman. An old woman," he added. On being asked if family members were used as human shields, the Hamas militants answered "Yes". One of the terrorists, who was at Be'eri, told interrogators: "When I entered the town, I saw two [terrorists] on a motorbike. They took a woman about 60-65 years old [with them] on the motorbike." He said that they took the woman to Gaza when the interrogator asked about her. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Captured Hamas militant claims he was offered $10K, apartment as reward for bringing hostages

An outbreak of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle has alarmed authorities in South Korea as the agricultural ministry said Wednesday (Oct 25) that it plans to complete the vaccination by early next month.&nbsp;

South Korea is aiming to contain the nationwide spread of the disease. As on Wednesday, it announced 29 new confirmed cases since the outbreak was first reported at a cattle farm last week.&nbsp;

The first-ever outbreak of the disease in South Korea was reported on Friday, and since then, confirmed cases have been on the rise. Authorities have said that at least seven suspected cases are currently being probed.&nbsp;

At a news briefing, Agriculture Ministry official Kwon Jae-han said, as quoted by the news agency Reuters, that the authorities are in talks with domestic and foreign companies to secure four million doses of vaccine by the end of this month. The ministry said that these many jabs would be sufficient to inoculate all the cows in the country.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bird-flu-detected-in-antarctica-region-for-the-first-time-experts-raise-concerns-650939">Bird flu detected in Antarctica region for the first time, experts raise concerns</a>

Kwon added, "Since the first outbreak of the lumpy skin disease at a cattle farm at Seosan in Chungnam province on October 19, there have been continuous outbreaks on the west coast, including the Chungnam and Gyeonggi provinces. Recently, a total of 29 new cases were reported in Eumseong county of Chungbuk province, and Yanggu county of Gangwon province."&nbsp;

Considering the three weeks needed to develop protective antibodies against the disease, if the nationwide vaccination programme is completed without delay, the outbreak trend will be stabilised within November.&nbsp;

"If the nationwide vaccine inoculation is completed as planned, the outbreak of lumpy skin disease is expected to stabilise within November given the three-week period needed to develop antibodies for immunisation," Kwon said during the media briefing.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-ancient-tectonic-plate-that-disappeared-20-million-years-ago-650437">Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What is lumpy skin disease?&nbsp;</h2>

The lumpy skin disease is a highly infectious viral disease which causes blisters and reduces milk production. It is transmitted by blood-sucking insects such as mosquitoes, ticks and flies. It does not pose a risk to humans.&nbsp;

The health authorities in South Korea are probing how the virus entered the country, including the possibility that infected mosquitoes were transported by air current or ships.&nbsp;

The disease does not affect humans.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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An outbreak of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle has alarmed authorities in South Korea as the agricultural ministry said Wednesday (Oct 25) that it plans to complete the vaccination by early next month.

An outbreak of lumpy skin disease (LSD) in cattle has alarmed authorities in South Korea as the agricultural ministry said Wednesday (Oct 25) that it plans to complete the vaccination by early next month. South Korea is aiming to contain the nationwide spread of the disease. As on Wednesday, it announced 29 new confirmed cases since the outbreak was first reported at a cattle farm last week. The first-ever outbreak of the disease in South Korea was reported on Friday, and since then, confirmed cases have been on the rise. Authorities have said that at least seven suspected cases are currently being probed. At a news briefing, Agriculture Ministry official Kwon Jae-han said, as quoted by the news agency Reuters, that the authorities are in talks with domestic and foreign companies to secure four million doses of vaccine by the end of this month. The ministry said that these many jabs would be sufficient to inoculate all the cows in the country. Also read: Bird flu detected in Antarctica region for the first time, experts raise concerns Kwon added, "Since the first outbreak of the lumpy skin disease at a cattle farm at Seosan in Chungnam province on October 19, there have been continuous outbreaks on the west coast, including the Chungnam and Gyeonggi provinces. Recently, a total of 29 new cases were reported in Eumseong county of Chungbuk province, and Yanggu county of Gangwon province." Considering the three weeks needed to develop protective antibodies against the disease, if the nationwide vaccination programme is completed without delay, the outbreak trend will be stabilised within November. "If the nationwide vaccine inoculation is completed as planned, the outbreak of lumpy skin disease is expected to stabilise within November given the three-week period needed to develop antibodies for immunisation," Kwon said during the media briefing. Also read: Scientists discover ancient tectonic plate that disappeared 20 million years ago What is lumpy skin disease? The lumpy skin disease is a highly infectious viral disease which causes blisters and reduces milk production. It is transmitted by blood-sucking insects such as mosquitoes, ticks and flies. It does not pose a risk to humans. The health authorities in South Korea are probing how the virus entered the country, including the possibility that infected mosquitoes were transported by air current or ships. The disease does not affect humans. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South Korea aims to tackle lumpy skin disease by vaccinating all cattle by early Nov

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hamas-had-intentions-of-using-chemical-weapons-as-part-of-terror-attack-report-649949">Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents</a> against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.&nbsp;

During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist.&nbsp;The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents".&nbsp;

"This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said.&nbsp;

Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants&nbsp;were carrying the elements to make a bomb.&nbsp;

There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/what-are-white-phosphorus-bombs-that-israel-reportedly-launched-in-gaza-it-is-legal-to-use-645106">What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal?</a>&nbsp;

<h2>What are chemical weapons?&nbsp;</h2>

A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances.&nbsp;

The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm&nbsp;through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a&nbsp;non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict.&nbsp;

Chemical weapons are&nbsp;condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty.

Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD).&nbsp;

Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/is-israel-hamas-war-spreading-al-qaeda-and-is-call-on-followers-to-attack-jewish-and-us-targets-650184">Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks</a>

<h2>How chemical weapons are used?&nbsp;</h2>

Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray.&nbsp;

These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate&nbsp;humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress.&nbsp;

There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency.&nbsp;

Watch this report:&nbsp;

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<h2>Are chemical weapons banned?&nbsp;</h2>

The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war.&nbsp;

Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty.&nbsp;

Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/a-family-destroyed-16-year-old-british-teen-noiya-sharabi-confirmed-dead-in-tragic-hamas-attack-650157">A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack</a>&nbsp;

<h2>Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons?</h2>

Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks.&nbsp;

The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy".&nbsp;

Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences.&nbsp;

In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported.&nbsp;

This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram.&nbsp;

There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case.&nbsp;

<h2>When were such weapons used?&nbsp;</h2>

There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility.

History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium.&nbsp;

During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths.&nbsp;

During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians.&nbsp;

The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War.&nbsp;

Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people.&nbsp;

<h2>How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks?</h2>

From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007.

On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian.&nbsp;

Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons.&nbsp;

The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages.

Israeli President Isaac Herzog said in an interview that Hamas militants had plans to use cyanide agents against Israeli civilians when they launched an unprecedented attack on Oct 7, killing more than 1,400 people and taking around 200 hostages. During the interview with Sky News, Herzog supported his claims by showing material recovered from a USB drive on the body of a Hamas terrorist. The document was copied from al-Qaeda and had "detailed instructions on creating chemical weapons". It also included "precise instructions for preparing a device for dispersing cyanide agents". "This is material which was found on the body of one of those sadistic villains. It's al-Qaeda material, official al-Qaeda material. When dealing with ISIS, al-Qaeda, and Hamas, this is what we're dealing with. And in this material, there were instructions, on how to produce chemical weapons," he said. Tensions continue to escalate, and several claims and counterclaims are being made. But there's no data that would substantiate what Hamas planned, or whether or not the militants were carrying the elements to make a bomb. There's no confirmation of the use of chemical weapons in the Israel-Hamas war which started after the Oct 7 attack. But let's decode what exactly chemical weapons are. Also read: What are white phosphorus bombs that Israel reportedly used in Gaza? Is it illegal? What are chemical weapons? A Chemical Weapon (CW) is a chemical used to cause intentional death or harm through its toxic properties. Chemical weapons also include munitions, gadgets, and other equipment specifically designed to weaponise toxic substances. The Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) says that any chemical which through its chemical action on life processes can cause death, temporary incapacitation or permanent harm through its toxic properties is termed a chemical weapon. Chlorine, which is a non-controlled chemical, could also become a chemical weapon if used in a conflict. Chemical weapons are condemned by human rights groups, but white phosphorous is not banned by the CWC. Neither are cluster munitions, which fall under a separate international treaty. Chemical weapons can be used in warfare and are known by the military acronym NBC (for nuclear, biological, and chemical warfare). They are different from nuclear weapons, biological weapons, and radiological weapons, but are classified as weapons of mass destruction (WMD). Chemical weapons are cheap and simple to make, allowing even small terrorist groups to cause mass casualties in small quantities. Also read: Amid horror of Israel-Hamas war, al-Qaeda, Islamic State call for global attacks How chemical weapons are used? Chemical weapons are extremely toxic synthetic chemicals and can be extensively disseminated in gas, liquid, and solid forms. They can readily injure anyone other than the intended targets. Chemical weapons in the modern era include nerve gas, tear gas, and pepper spray. These CW agents can be deadly or incapacitate humans. They vary from explosive compounds, in that their damaging effects are localised and triggered by shear stress. There are thousands of toxic substances known, but only a few of them are considered CW agents based on their characteristics, such as high toxicity, imperceptibility to senses, rapidity of action after dissemination, and persistency. Watch this report: × Are chemical weapons banned? The 1925 Protocol for the Prohibition of the Use of Asphyxiating, Poisonous or Other Gases, and of Bacteriological Methods of Warfare, commonly known as the 1925 Geneva Protocol, bans the use of chemical and bacteriological (biological) weapons in war. Chemical weapons production, use and stockpiling are banned under the 1997 Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC). Some nations, such as Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan, have not signed or ratified the international arms control treaty. Under the treaty, the use of the most dangerous "scheduled" toxins and their precursors is banned. This includes nerve agents sarin, VX and the Soviet-era developed Novichok, as well as the poison ricin and blistering agent sulphur mustard. Also read: A 16-year-old British teen Noiya Sharabi confirmed dead in tragic Hamas attack Are there long-term effects of chemical weapons? Lancet conducted a study, published in 2002, after analysing volunteers who suffered such attacks. The study mentioned that those who have claimed that they were exposed to chemical warfare agents have often presented with "unusual clinical syndromes or symptom complexes that have caused controversy". Nerve agents such as sarin, tabun, and soman, are believed to have the most severe long-term consequences. In some cases, altered neuromuscular function, abnormal electroencephalograms, and impaired psychomotor performance have been reported. This could affect behaviour, intelligence, and memory, especially if the initial exposure induced cerebral abnormalities detectable via MRI or electroencephalogram. There can be other effects as well, but it needs more data and analysis to find out other long-term effects, which also vary from case to case. When were such weapons used? There have been various instances when chemical weapons were deployed. After the development of industrial chemistry in the 19th century, mass manufacturing and deployment of CW agents in warfare became a possibility. History books have mentioned the German gas attack with chlorine on April 22, 1915, at Ypres, Belgium. During World War I, the use of these toxic chemicals, including phosgene, sulfur mustard and lewisites, caused 100,000 deaths. During World War II, Nazis used Zyklon B gas (hydrogen cyanide gas) which killed millions of civilians. The United States used Agent Orange, a defoliant, during the Vietnam War. Another instance was in the 1980s during the Iran-Iraq war. An Iraqi nerve agent strike was reportedly launched on the Kurdish civilian population of Halabja, killing hundreds of people. How al-Qaeda has used chemical weapons in attacks? From late 2006 to mid-2007, al-Qaeda in Iraq detonated a series of crude chlorine bombs in Iraq. The New America Foundation discovered a total of 16 chlorine gas bombs in Iraq, the most recent of which occurred in June 2007. On Oct 21, 2006, al-Qaeda in Iraq initiated its chlorine bomb campaign in Ramadi by detonating a car filled with mortars and chlorine tanks, injuring three Iraqi police officers and a civilian. Most publications on al-Qaeda's chemical weapons operations simply claim that there is evidence that it is interested in creating or acquiring chemical weapons. The 11th volume of al-Qaeda’s Encyclopedia of Jihad talks about how to construct chemical and biological weapons. Osama bin Laden claimed: "‘We have chemical and nuclear weapons as a deterrent and if America used them against us we reserve the right to use them." His remarks came during an interview with a Pakistani journalist in 2001. (With inputs from agencies) Disclaimer: WION takes utmost care to accurately and responsibly report ongoing developments on the Israel-Palestine conflict after the Hamas attacks. However, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Explained: Did Hamas plan to use chemical weapons on Israelis? What are these 'dirty' weapons?

Armita Geravand, an Iranian woman who was left in a coma in the aftermath of an alleged assault on the Tehran metro by female police officers, is reported to be "brain dead", state media said on Sunday (Oct 22). She reportedly had an alleged encounter with officers over violating the country's hijab law.&nbsp;

The 16-year-old's condition was first reported on Oct 3 by Hengaw, which is a Kurdish-focused rights group. It said that she was critically injured during the metro incident.&nbsp;

The rights group was the one which had published photos on social media, revealing the state &nbsp;Armita was in who was seen unconscious with a respiratory tube and bandage over her head, visibly on life support.&nbsp;

The Hengaw group was the one which initially claimed that she had been hurt in a confrontation with female police officers on the metro for allegedly violating the dress code for women.&nbsp;

Iran's state-affiliated Borna news agency said it "seems certain" that Geravand was "brain dead". The news agency had reported on Oct 11 that her condition had deteriorated.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-orders-citizens-not-to-travel-to-iraq-due-to-terrorism-armed-conflict-650076">US orders citizens not to travel to Iraq due to terrorism, armed conflict</a>&nbsp;

As quoted by news agencies, state media reported, "Follow-ups on the latest health condition of Geravand indicate that her condition of being brain dead seems certain despite the efforts of the medical staff."&nbsp;

Meanwhile, state news agency IRNA reported that Geravand fainted because of low blood pressure, but several reports emerged claiming that she was assaulted.&nbsp;

Geravand was with friends and apparently not wearing a headscarf. Reports claimed that she was pushed into a metro carriage by female police agents.

The head of the Tehran metro has denied there was any verbal or physical altercation between the teenager and passengers or staff.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-says-it-thwarted-ukrainian-attempts-to-cross-dnipro-in-kherson-region-650103">Russia says it thwarted Ukrainian attempts to cross Dnipro in Kherson region</a>&nbsp;

Watch:&nbsp;Iran journalists who covered Amini death get jail sentences&nbsp;

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<h2>Another case after Mahsa Amini&nbsp;</h2>

The case was reported just over a year after the death of Mahsa Amini for allegedly breaching Iran's strict dress code for women. She was also a Kurdish-Iranian woman. Her death led to mass protests across the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;

Geravand hails from Kermanshah, a city some 500 kilometres from Tehran, but she lives in the Iranian capital.&nbsp;

Her condition sparked interest in the West, with both Germany and the United States raising concerns about the case after a purported video of the incident circulated on social media.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Armita Geravand, an Iranian woman who was left in a coma in the aftermath of an alleged assault on the Tehran metro by female police officers, is reported to be "brain dead", state media said on Sunday (Oct 22).

Armita Geravand, an Iranian woman who was left in a coma in the aftermath of an alleged assault on the Tehran metro by female police officers, is reported to be "brain dead", state media said on Sunday (Oct 22). She reportedly had an alleged encounter with officers over violating the country's hijab law. The 16-year-old's condition was first reported on Oct 3 by Hengaw, which is a Kurdish-focused rights group. It said that she was critically injured during the metro incident. The rights group was the one which had published photos on social media, revealing the state Armita was in who was seen unconscious with a respiratory tube and bandage over her head, visibly on life support. The Hengaw group was the one which initially claimed that she had been hurt in a confrontation with female police officers on the metro for allegedly violating the dress code for women. Iran's state-affiliated Borna news agency said it "seems certain" that Geravand was "brain dead". The news agency had reported on Oct 11 that her condition had deteriorated. Also read: US orders citizens not to travel to Iraq due to terrorism, armed conflict As quoted by news agencies, state media reported, "Follow-ups on the latest health condition of Geravand indicate that her condition of being brain dead seems certain despite the efforts of the medical staff." Meanwhile, state news agency IRNA reported that Geravand fainted because of low blood pressure, but several reports emerged claiming that she was assaulted. Geravand was with friends and apparently not wearing a headscarf. Reports claimed that she was pushed into a metro carriage by female police agents. The head of the Tehran metro has denied there was any verbal or physical altercation between the teenager and passengers or staff. Also read: Russia says it thwarted Ukrainian attempts to cross Dnipro in Kherson region Watch: Iran journalists who covered Amini death get jail sentences × Another case after Mahsa Amini The case was reported just over a year after the death of Mahsa Amini for allegedly breaching Iran's strict dress code for women. She was also a Kurdish-Iranian woman. Her death led to mass protests across the Islamic Republic. Geravand hails from Kermanshah, a city some 500 kilometres from Tehran, but she lives in the Iranian capital. Her condition sparked interest in the West, with both Germany and the United States raising concerns about the case after a purported video of the incident circulated on social media. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Armita Geravand, Iranian teen allegedly assaulted by police, likely 'brain dead'

China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea.&nbsp;

The Philippines foreign ministry official said that Manila summoned Beijing's ambassador on Monday over two collisions.&nbsp;

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza told reporters, "We're making full use of diplomatic processes... available to us. That includes summoning the Chinese ambassador (Huang Xilian), which we did this morning."&nbsp;

Daza also said that the ambassador was unavailable and was represented by his deputy chief of mission during the meeting at the foreign ministry. &nbsp;

"Ayungin Shoal is part of our exclusive economic zone and continental shelf and we have sovereign rights and jurisdiction over it," Daza said, using the Philippine name for the shoal.&nbsp;

"China, as a major power, bears a heavier responsibility of contributing to peace and stability in the region," she said.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-holds-air-drill-with-japan-and-us-first-such-collaboration-649963">South Korea holds air drills with Japan and US in first such collaboration</a>

<h2>What exactly happened?&nbsp;</h2>

In a statement, China's coast guard said that the Philippine vessel had ignored repeated warnings, crossed the bow of the Chinese ship and "deliberately provoked trouble", which led to the collision.&nbsp;

In another incident, a Philippine coastguard vessel was "bumped" by what the Philippine task force described as a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel".&nbsp;

Both collisions happened during a routine Philippine resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed on a navy vessel grounded on the shoal to assert Manila's territorial claims.&nbsp;

The Philippines has also released videos to support its accusations as both nations blamed each other for Sunday's incidents near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/chinas-property-market-continues-to-struggle-despite-government-stimulus-650122">China's property market continues to struggle despite government stimulus</a>

Watch the video here:&nbsp;

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<h2>Recent escalation&nbsp;</h2>

China has repeatedly warned the Philippines over its mission of supplying troops stationed in disputed waters in the South China Sea. But Manila says it's within its rights.&nbsp;

Recently, tensions escalated after the Philippine Coast Guard said it removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef and alleged that China deployed the reef to block Filipinos from the traditional fishing ground.&nbsp;

In August, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard ships of firing water cannons and making dangerous manoeuvres at its ships in the South China Sea.&nbsp;

Xilian was last summoned to the foreign ministry in August after the China Coast Guard used a water cannon on Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal.&nbsp;

China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, pointing to a line on its maps that cuts into the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 said that the line on China's maps had no legal basis.

(With inputs from agencies)

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China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea.

China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday (Oct 22) which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea. The Philippines foreign ministry official said that Manila summoned Beijing's ambassador on Monday over two collisions. Foreign ministry spokeswoman Teresita Daza told reporters, "We're making full use of diplomatic processes... available to us. That includes summoning the Chinese ambassador (Huang Xilian), which we did this morning." Daza also said that the ambassador was unavailable and was represented by his deputy chief of mission during the meeting at the foreign ministry. "Ayungin Shoal is part of our exclusive economic zone and continental shelf and we have sovereign rights and jurisdiction over it," Daza said, using the Philippine name for the shoal. "China, as a major power, bears a heavier responsibility of contributing to peace and stability in the region," she said. Also read: South Korea holds air drills with Japan and US in first such collaboration What exactly happened? In a statement, China's coast guard said that the Philippine vessel had ignored repeated warnings, crossed the bow of the Chinese ship and "deliberately provoked trouble", which led to the collision. In another incident, a Philippine coastguard vessel was "bumped" by what the Philippine task force described as a "Chinese Maritime Militia vessel". Both collisions happened during a routine Philippine resupply mission to Filipino troops stationed on a navy vessel grounded on the shoal to assert Manila's territorial claims. The Philippines has also released videos to support its accusations as both nations blamed each other for Sunday's incidents near Second Thomas Shoal in the Spratly Islands. Also read: China's property market continues to struggle despite government stimulus Watch the video here: × Recent escalation China has repeatedly warned the Philippines over its mission of supplying troops stationed in disputed waters in the South China Sea. But Manila says it's within its rights. Recently, tensions escalated after the Philippine Coast Guard said it removed a floating barrier at a disputed reef and alleged that China deployed the reef to block Filipinos from the traditional fishing ground. In August, the Philippines accused Chinese Coast Guard ships of firing water cannons and making dangerous manoeuvres at its ships in the South China Sea. Xilian was last summoned to the foreign ministry in August after the China Coast Guard used a water cannon on Philippine vessels near Second Thomas Shoal. China claims sovereignty over almost the entire South China Sea, pointing to a line on its maps that cuts into the exclusive economic zones of Vietnam, the Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Indonesia. The Permanent Court of Arbitration in 2016 said that the line on China's maps had no legal basis. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions

Israel-Palestine War: Hamas and Israeli forces clash in Gaza as airstrikes intensify.

Hamas and Israeli forces clash in Gaza as airstrikes intensify

Israel's military carried out airstrikes early on Monday on two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon. The cells were allegedly planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel. Stay with WION to get latest updates from ground zero.&nbsp;

Indian foreign minister said on Sunday that his government invoked the diplomatic parity as it had concerns about continuous interference in India's affairs by Canadian personnel.

<h2>Click on headlines to read the full report:&nbsp;</h2>

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-strikes-gaza-lebanon-overnight-650107">Israel strikes Hezbollah cells in Lebanon, claims to have foiled planned missile attack</a> 
Israel's military carried out airstrikes early on Monday on two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon. The cells were allegedly planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-hamas-war-live-israel-strikes-gaza-lebanon-overnight-650107">Click Here</a> to get all updates

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/invoked-diplomatic-parity-with-canada-because-jaishankar-on-withdrawal-of-canadian-diplomats-from-india-649985">Jaishankar on India invoking diplomatic parity with Canada</a> 
India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday that his government invoked the diplomatic parity as it had concerns about continuous interference in India's affairs by Canadian personnel.

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/armita-geravand-hospitalised-iranian-teen-likely-brain-dead-650123">Armita Geravand: Hospitalised Iranian teen likely 'brain dead'</a> 
Armita Geravand, an Iranian who was left in a coma in the aftermath of an alleged assault on the Tehran metro by female police officers is reported to be "brain dead".&nbsp;

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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-china-sea-philippines-summons-chinese-envoy-over-two-collisions-650130">South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions</a> 
China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea.&nbsp;

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WATCH: US restrictions on AI chips could benefit Huawei in China? 
The US has just fired another shot in the ongoing tech trade war with China. In a move that's making waves across the globe, the Biden administration has taken a stand to halt shipments of advanced artificial intelligence chips.&nbsp;

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&nbsp;

Israel's military carried out airstrikes early on Monday on two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon. The cells were allegedly planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel.

Israel's military carried out airstrikes early on Monday on two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon. The cells were allegedly planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel. Stay with WION to get latest updates from ground zero. Indian foreign minister said on Sunday that his government invoked the diplomatic parity as it had concerns about continuous interference in India's affairs by Canadian personnel. Click on headlines to read the full report: Israel strikes Hezbollah cells in Lebanon, claims to have foiled planned missile attack Israel's military carried out airstrikes early on Monday on two Hezbollah cells in Lebanon. The cells were allegedly planning to launch anti-tank missiles and rockets towards Israel. Click Here to get all updates Jaishankar on India invoking diplomatic parity with Canada India's Foreign Minister S Jaishankar said on Sunday that his government invoked the diplomatic parity as it had concerns about continuous interference in India's affairs by Canadian personnel. Armita Geravand: Hospitalised Iranian teen likely 'brain dead' Armita Geravand, an Iranian who was left in a coma in the aftermath of an alleged assault on the Tehran metro by female police officers is reported to be "brain dead". South China Sea: Philippines summons Chinese envoy over two collisions China has released videos said to be taken on Sunday which show its vessel blocking a Philippine boat which was supplying forces in disputed waters of the South China Sea. WATCH: US restrictions on AI chips could benefit Huawei in China? The US has just fired another shot in the ongoing tech trade war with China. In a move that's making waves across the globe, the Biden administration has taken a stand to halt shipments of advanced artificial intelligence chips. ×

Morning news brief: Latest on Israel-Hamas war, Iranian teen likely 'brain dead', and more

Argentina's Economy Minister Sergio Massa and anti-establishment outsider Javier Milei will face off in a runoff presidential election, according to partial poll results released Sunday.

With 76 percent of votes counted, Massa surprised by pulling ahead with 35.9 percent of votes, while Milei secured 30.51 percent.

The two will compete in a Nov. 19 runoff election, with the winner to take office in December.

The far-right libertarian economist Milei had been polling as the frontrunner ahead of Massa, who has overseen inflation of almost 140 percent and poverty that has reached 40 percent.

Celebrations broke out in the election bunker of Massa, the candidate for the center-left Peronist ruling coalition which has dominated&nbsp;Argentine&nbsp;politics for decades.

"Massa carried out a very good campaign. He connected with the people," said Jonatan Pagano, a 36-year-old construction worker.

Latin America's third-biggest economy is creaking under decades of recurrent fiscal crises marked by debt, financial mismanagement, and inflation.

Milei, who turned 53 Sunday, has vowed to dollarize the economy, slash spending, and "dynamite" the central bank.

In response, Massa's campaign took pains to highlight what cutting hefty electricity and public transport subsidies would mean for people's pockets.

To woo voters, Massa went on a pre-election spending spree, slashing income tax for much of the population in a move analysts said would only make the country's fragile financial situation worse.

'The lesser evil'&nbsp;

Many casting their ballots were jittery over the impact of the vote on the volatile peso and inflation, and said they were simply choosing the least worst option.

"There is so much uncertainty ... and fear, out of these candidates, there are none who represent me. There is no one who can change what we need here in&nbsp;Argentina," said graphic designer Maria Olguin, 40, who did not want to reveal her vote.

"I'll choose the lesser evil," said trader Raul Narvaez, 64.

With 40 percent of the population living in poverty and a middle class brought to its knees, many voters were keen to see the back of the traditional parties they view as the architects of their misery.

"Obviously I voted for Milei," said Esteban Montenegro, 24, who works in sales in the capital Buenos Aires.

"But it is not that I have all the confidence in the world... but he is the only one giving solid, transparent proposals."

'Anarcho-capitalist'&nbsp;

Milei, a libertarian economist, blindsided pollsters when he surged to the front of the election race, winning an August primary with 30 percent of votes.

Analysts say his surge follows the regional trend towards anti-establishment parties, and he is often compared to former US president Donald Trump or Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro.

Bolsonaro's son Eduardo was present in his election bunker Sunday to show his support.

"I believe that Milei will win, whether it's in the first or second round doesn't matter," he said.

Milei, a self-described "anarcho-capitalist" with disheveled hair and a rock-star persona has shown up at rallies with a powered-up chainsaw, vowing to slash public spending by 15 percent.

He is against abortion and sex education, wants to ditch about ten government ministries, and does not believe humans are responsible for climate change.

The conservative tough-talking former security minister Patricia Bullrich came in third place with 23.61 percent.&nbsp;

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Argentina's Economy Minister Sergio Massa and anti-establishment outsider Javier Milei will face off in a runoff presidential election, according to partial poll results released Sunday.

Argentina's Economy Minister Sergio Massa and anti-establishment outsider Javier Milei will face off in a runoff presidential election, according to partial poll results released Sunday. With 76 percent of votes counted, Massa surprised by pulling ahead with 35.9 percent of votes, while Milei secured 30.51 percent. The two will compete in a Nov. 19 runoff election, with the winner to take office in December. The far-right libertarian economist Milei had been polling as the frontrunner ahead of Massa, who has overseen inflation of almost 140 percent and poverty that has reached 40 percent. Celebrations broke out in the election bunker of Massa, the candidate for the center-left Peronist ruling coalition which has dominated Argentine politics for decades. "Massa carried out a very good campaign. He connected with the people," said Jonatan Pagano, a 36-year-old construction worker. Latin America's third-biggest economy is creaking under decades of recurrent fiscal crises marked by debt, financial mismanagement, and inflation. Milei, who turned 53 Sunday, has vowed to dollarize the economy, slash spending, and "dynamite" the central bank. In response, Massa's campaign took pains to highlight what cutting hefty electricity and public transport subsidies would mean for people's pockets. To woo voters, Massa went on a pre-election spending spree, slashing income tax for much of the population in a move analysts said would only make the country's fragile financial situation worse. 'The lesser evil' Many casting their ballots were jittery over the impact of the vote on the volatile peso and inflation, and said they were simply choosing the least worst option. "There is so much uncertainty ... and fear, out of these candidates, there are none who represent me. There is no one who can change what we need here in Argentina," said graphic designer Maria Olguin, 40, who did not want to reveal her vote. "I'll choose the lesser evil," said trader Raul Narvaez, 64. With 40 percent of the population living in poverty and a middle class brought to its knees, many voters were keen to see the back of the traditional parties they view as the architects of their misery. "Obviously I voted for Milei," said Esteban Montenegro, 24, who works in sales in the capital Buenos Aires. "But it is not that I have all the confidence in the world... but he is the only one giving solid, transparent proposals." 'Anarcho-capitalist' Milei, a libertarian economist, blindsided pollsters when he surged to the front of the election race, winning an August primary with 30 percent of votes. Analysts say his surge follows the regional trend towards anti-establishment parties, and he is often compared to former US president Donald Trump or Brazil's Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro's son Eduardo was present in his election bunker Sunday to show his support. "I believe that Milei will win, whether it's in the first or second round doesn't matter," he said. Milei, a self-described "anarcho-capitalist" with disheveled hair and a rock-star persona has shown up at rallies with a powered-up chainsaw, vowing to slash public spending by 15 percent. He is against abortion and sex education, wants to ditch about ten government ministries, and does not believe humans are responsible for climate change. The conservative tough-talking former security minister Patricia Bullrich came in third place with 23.61 percent. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Economy minister Sergio Massa and outsider Javier Milei head to Argentina runoff

An investigation by an environmental protection group revealed that top Chinese pharmaceutical companies, which are publicly traded, use endangered animal parts in their medicines.&nbsp;

The probe has named three big companies among others: Beijing Tong Ren Tang Group, Tianjin Pharmaceutical Group and Jilin Aodong Pharmaceutical Group. They are also backed by top global banks, such as UBS and HSBC.&nbsp;

The Environmental Investigation Agency UK (EIA) released a report on Monday (Oct 23) highlighting the list of 72 firms.&nbsp;

The NGO said that these companies are using body parts of threatened leopards and pangolins as ingredients in at least 88 traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products.&nbsp;

Avinash Basker, who is a legal and policy specialist for the NGO, said in a media release: "It's particularly disappointing to see so many major banks and financial institutions effectively endorsing this damaging exploitation."&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/women-in-prehistoric-times-were-not-only-gatherers-but-hunters-too-study-650213">Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests</a>

The EIA called on the shareholders to divest their stakes. Basker said, "It's particularly disappointing to see so many major banks and financial institutions effectively endorsing this damaging exploitation, especially as so many have pledged to do otherwise."&nbsp;

"They need to divest from TCM manufacturers using threatened species at the soonest opportunity," Basker added.&nbsp;

The environment protection group said that it focused on pharmaceutical companies because display products included leopard or pangolin parts on their websites.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/whats-this-an-eerie-mermaid-spotted-in-papua-new-guinea-leaves-experts-bewildered-649612">An eerie 'Mermaid' spotted in Papua New Guinea leaves experts bewildered</a>

The group said that it had found at least nine "products stated to contain leopard and/ or pangolin".&nbsp;

Some companies also sell products that contain parts of tigers and rhinos. EIA pointed out that this would contradict "China's own stated position that it does not allow the use of tiger bone and rhino horn in medicine".&nbsp;

"This is used on an effectively industrial scale which can only push these species ever closer to extinction,” Basker further said.&nbsp;

Notably,&nbsp;TCM products are known for using a wide variety of animal parts as ingredients, and manufacturers often publicly tout the efficacy of such ingredients and list them on their product packages.

(With inputs from agencies)

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An investigation by an environmental protection group revealed that top Chinese pharmaceutical companies, which are publicly traded, use endangered animal parts in their medicines.

An investigation by an environmental protection group revealed that top Chinese pharmaceutical companies, which are publicly traded, use endangered animal parts in their medicines. The probe has named three big companies among others: Beijing Tong Ren Tang Group, Tianjin Pharmaceutical Group and Jilin Aodong Pharmaceutical Group. They are also backed by top global banks, such as UBS and HSBC. The Environmental Investigation Agency UK (EIA) released a report on Monday (Oct 23) highlighting the list of 72 firms. The NGO said that these companies are using body parts of threatened leopards and pangolins as ingredients in at least 88 traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) products. Avinash Basker, who is a legal and policy specialist for the NGO, said in a media release: "It's particularly disappointing to see so many major banks and financial institutions effectively endorsing this damaging exploitation." Also read: Hunting was not solely a man's arena in prehistoric times, women did it too, study suggests The EIA called on the shareholders to divest their stakes. Basker said, "It's particularly disappointing to see so many major banks and financial institutions effectively endorsing this damaging exploitation, especially as so many have pledged to do otherwise." "They need to divest from TCM manufacturers using threatened species at the soonest opportunity," Basker added. The environment protection group said that it focused on pharmaceutical companies because display products included leopard or pangolin parts on their websites. Also read: An eerie 'Mermaid' spotted in Papua New Guinea leaves experts bewildered The group said that it had found at least nine "products stated to contain leopard and/ or pangolin". Some companies also sell products that contain parts of tigers and rhinos. EIA pointed out that this would contradict "China's own stated position that it does not allow the use of tiger bone and rhino horn in medicine". "This is used on an effectively industrial scale which can only push these species ever closer to extinction,” Basker further said. Notably, TCM products are known for using a wide variety of animal parts as ingredients, and manufacturers often publicly tout the efficacy of such ingredients and list them on their product packages. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Top Chinese pharmaceutical companies use parts of endangered animals as ingredients: Report

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operations were halted yet again on Sunday (Oct 22) due to a lack of fuel as the nation's flag carrier keeps getting hit by setbacks. Pakistan State Oil (PSO) stopped fuel supply to PIA, severely impacting the airlines.&nbsp;

Local media outlets reported that the airline cancelled around 70 flights from major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and more.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The affected passengers were provided with alternative flights, a PIA spokesperson said as quoted in media reports.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/explained-nawaz-sharif-returns-to-pakistan-his-past-present-and-future-650204">Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan. His past, present, and future</a>

PIA has faced multiple crises, including losses, but the current state appears to be dire in recent years.&nbsp;

In a recent statement, PSO said it had received an advance payment of $789,804 for the supply of fuel on Saturday and Sunday. They also received a list of some PIA aircraft.

However, the PIA spokesperson claimed that only four aircraft were fueled on Sunday, which affected the flight operations. &nbsp;

For operational support, the airline requested $76 million, but it was declined by the government. However, there's no information on whether or not caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar will opt for a restructuring plan to stabilise the finances of the airline.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-former-pm-imran-khan-charged-in-cipher-case-650282">Former Pak PM Imran Khan charged in cipher case</a>

PIA spokesperson Abdulllah Khan told Arab News: "On Sunday, only 11 flights could operate out of 81 scheduled flights due to fuel challenges." He said that the airline had been making advance payments to PSO for fuel supply. &nbsp;

"The Pakistan International Airlines made a payment of Rs 220 million on Friday which could last the weekend, but it did not. And on Sunday, we were refused fuel which resulted in massive cancellations," he said.&nbsp;

As per Khan, there were "slim chances of a full restoration of flight operations" considering the way fuel was being supplied and amid PSO's refusal to allow any credit line or relaxation to "a fellow government organisation".&nbsp;

"However, our focus will now shift toward preserving our international operations, for which we can secure fuel from other sources, unlike in Pakistan, where we are bound to obtain fuel from PSO," he said.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operations were halted yet again on Sunday (Oct 22) due to a lack of fuel as the nation's flag carrier keeps getting hit by setbacks.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) operations were halted yet again on Sunday (Oct 22) due to a lack of fuel as the nation's flag carrier keeps getting hit by setbacks. Pakistan State Oil (PSO) stopped fuel supply to PIA, severely impacting the airlines. Local media outlets reported that the airline cancelled around 70 flights from major cities like Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, and more. The affected passengers were provided with alternative flights, a PIA spokesperson said as quoted in media reports. Also read: Nawaz Sharif returns to Pakistan. His past, present, and future PIA has faced multiple crises, including losses, but the current state appears to be dire in recent years. In a recent statement, PSO said it had received an advance payment of $789,804 for the supply of fuel on Saturday and Sunday. They also received a list of some PIA aircraft. However, the PIA spokesperson claimed that only four aircraft were fueled on Sunday, which affected the flight operations. For operational support, the airline requested $76 million, but it was declined by the government. However, there's no information on whether or not caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar will opt for a restructuring plan to stabilise the finances of the airline. Also read: Former Pak PM Imran Khan charged in cipher case PIA spokesperson Abdulllah Khan told Arab News: "On Sunday, only 11 flights could operate out of 81 scheduled flights due to fuel challenges." He said that the airline had been making advance payments to PSO for fuel supply. "The Pakistan International Airlines made a payment of Rs 220 million on Friday which could last the weekend, but it did not. And on Sunday, we were refused fuel which resulted in massive cancellations," he said. As per Khan, there were "slim chances of a full restoration of flight operations" considering the way fuel was being supplied and amid PSO's refusal to allow any credit line or relaxation to "a fellow government organisation". "However, our focus will now shift toward preserving our international operations, for which we can secure fuel from other sources, unlike in Pakistan, where we are bound to obtain fuel from PSO," he said. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Pakistan International Airlines cancels flights over non-payment of dues to fuel supplier

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