In pics | France's Eiffel Tower lights up in solidarity with Iranians

After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi&nbsp;on Monday reported no new Covid cases-&nbsp;a major milestone in the national capital's&nbsp;fight against the virus. The city last saw its no Covid cases on March 24, 2020, the same day when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a lockdown from midnight.&nbsp;

Till now over 26,500 people have died after being infected, the Hindustan Times reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/delhi-wakes-up-to-severe-chill-as-temperature-drops-to-14-degrees-celsius-553194">Also&nbsp;read |&nbsp;Delhi wakes up to severe chill as temperature drops to 1.4 degrees Celsius</a>

Delhi reported its first Covid case on March 07, 2020. It reported its first fatality on March 13, 2020.&nbsp;

According to COVID-19 official bulletin figures released by Delhi's health department on Monday, around 2.07 million people have been infected since March 2020.&nbsp;

The data also showed that in the last 34 months, over 26,000 Delhi residents have died due to the infection.&nbsp;

The bulletin also showed that no covid patient died on Monday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/city-life-and-love-can-delhi-the-capital-of-art-fiestas-lend-its-corners-to-its-buskers-553259">Also read |&nbsp;City, life and love| Can Delhi, the capital of art fiestas, lend its corners to its buskers?</a>

Over the past week, Delhi reported an average of three Covid cases every day.&nbsp;

To ensure safety, the government is continuously conducting tests. Many people also got tested for COVID-19 at home using rapid kits. Known as rapid antigen tests, these kits display results within 15 minutes. However, its results are not reflected in official government data.

The national capital has endured five waves of coronavirus infection: Between the end of May and June 2020, In September 2020, in November 2002, between April and May 2021, and in January 2022.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi on Monday reported no new Covid cases- a major milestone in the national capital's fight against the virus.

After nearly three years or 1,027 days to be precise, Delhi on Monday reported no new Covid cases- a major milestone in the national capital's fight against the virus. The city last saw its no Covid cases on March 24, 2020, the same day when Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a lockdown from midnight. Till now over 26,500 people have died after being infected, the Hindustan Times reported. Also read | Delhi wakes up to severe chill as temperature drops to 1.4 degrees Celsius Delhi reported its first Covid case on March 07, 2020. It reported its first fatality on March 13, 2020. According to COVID-19 official bulletin figures released by Delhi's health department on Monday, around 2.07 million people have been infected since March 2020. The data also showed that in the last 34 months, over 26,000 Delhi residents have died due to the infection. The bulletin also showed that no covid patient died on Monday. Also read | City, life and love| Can Delhi, the capital of art fiestas, lend its corners to its buskers? Over the past week, Delhi reported an average of three Covid cases every day. To ensure safety, the government is continuously conducting tests. Many people also got tested for COVID-19 at home using rapid kits. Known as rapid antigen tests, these kits display results within 15 minutes. However, its results are not reflected in official government data. The national capital has endured five waves of coronavirus infection: Between the end of May and June 2020, In September 2020, in November 2002, between April and May 2021, and in January 2022. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

For the first time in 1,027 days, Delhi registers no new Covid cases; no new fatality reported

Twitter has revoked the paid-for verification feature of Taliban officials, hours after several users raised concerns about it on the micro-blogging site.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Two prominent officials and four supporters got their accounts verified using a bluetick subscription, according to BBC.&nbsp;This includes the head of the Taliban department for access to information, Hedayatullah Hedayat, who has around 187,000 followers, and&nbsp;the head of the media watchdog in the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture, Abdul Haq Hammad, who has almost 170,000 followers.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/talibans-first-indigenously-made-supercar-unveiled-553254">Also read |&nbsp;Taliban's first indigenously made supercar unveiled</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Afghanistan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Afghanistan</a> : <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Taliban?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Taliban</a> officials buying blue ticks on <a href="https://twitter.com/Twitter?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Twitter</a> thanks to paid scheme introduced under Elon Musk - <a href="https://t.co/0U4T8pVXK8">pic.twitter.com/0U4T8pVXK8</a>
— sebastian usher (@sebusher) <a href="https://twitter.com/sebusher/status/1614977555160760320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

It's not just&nbsp;Hedayat and Hammad, many prominent Taliban supporters now have verified accounts.

Initially, the company had said that its&nbsp;blue tick service&nbsp;will indicate only, "noble, active and authentic accounts of public interest,"&nbsp;which will be verified by it, and could not be purchased. However, soon after Elon Musk's takeover, the microblogging site announced its paid "verification tick" available at the price of $8 for android users and $11 for people using the app on Apple devices.

The presence of these hard-line Islamists on Twitter has long been a topic of controversy.&nbsp;

Back in 2021, former US president Donald Trump's account was suspended after the Jan 06, Capitol incident. At the time, Trump had remarked, "we live in a world where the Taliban has a huge presence on Twitter, yet your favourite American President has been silenced."

On Monday, a Taliban official Muhammad Jalal praised Elon Musk saying that he is "making Twitter great again."

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Thank you <a href="https://twitter.com/elonmusk?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@elonmusk</a> for buying twitter. Elon Musk in making twitter great again.
— Muhammad Jalal (@MJalal700) <a href="https://twitter.com/MJalal700/status/1614828010594783235?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 16, 2023</a></blockquote>
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Before the introduction of the so-called paid&nbsp;blue tick, no Taliban official had a verified account.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Twitter has revoked the paid-for verification feature of Taliban officials, hours after several users raised concerns about it on the micro-blogging site. Two prominent officials and four supporters got their accounts verified using a bluetick subscription, according to BBC.

Twitter has revoked the paid-for verification feature of Taliban officials, hours after several users raised concerns about it on the micro-blogging site. Two prominent officials and four supporters got their accounts verified using a bluetick subscription, according to BBC. This includes the head of the Taliban department for access to information, Hedayatullah Hedayat, who has around 187,000 followers, and the head of the media watchdog in the Afghan Ministry of Information and Culture, Abdul Haq Hammad, who has almost 170,000 followers. Also read | Taliban's first indigenously made supercar unveiled #Afghanistan : #Taliban officials buying blue ticks on @Twitter thanks to paid scheme introduced under Elon Musk - pic.twitter.com/0U4T8pVXK8 — sebastian usher (@sebusher) January 16, 2023 × It's not just Hedayat and Hammad, many prominent Taliban supporters now have verified accounts. Initially, the company had said that its blue tick service will indicate only, "noble, active and authentic accounts of public interest," which will be verified by it, and could not be purchased. However, soon after Elon Musk's takeover, the microblogging site announced its paid "verification tick" available at the price of $8 for android users and $11 for people using the app on Apple devices. The presence of these hard-line Islamists on Twitter has long been a topic of controversy. Back in 2021, former US president Donald Trump's account was suspended after the Jan 06, Capitol incident. At the time, Trump had remarked, "we live in a world where the Taliban has a huge presence on Twitter, yet your favourite American President has been silenced." On Monday, a Taliban official Muhammad Jalal praised Elon Musk saying that he is "making Twitter great again." Thank you @elonmusk for buying twitter. Elon Musk in making twitter great again. — Muhammad Jalal (@MJalal700) January 16, 2023 × Before the introduction of the so-called paid blue tick, no Taliban official had a verified account. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Elon Musk's Twitter removes paid verification feature of Taliban after outrage

After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday.&nbsp;

The government in a statement said, "fully being aware of his responsibilities before the party and people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions, quit his job and retire."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-carries-major-expansion-in-south-china-sea-says-report-543377">Also read |&nbsp;Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report</a>

Despite his downfall, the government on Tuesday praised Phuc for his achievements. It said, "as prime minister for the 2016-2021 term, he has made great efforts in leading, directing and administering the COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control, achieving important results."

Phuc, 68, who was premier from 2016-2021, held the presidential position for less than two years. He was the highest-ranking official targeted by the Communist party's sweeping corruption crackdown.

He was chosen in April 2021 to be president and was likely to succeed as the party's, General Secretary.

Over the past few weeks, there had been wide speculation that the president would quit following the dismissals of the two deputy prime ministers who served under him.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/vietnam-tightens-social-media-rules-move-may-help-regime-531174">Also read |&nbsp;Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime</a>

People familiar with the matter told Reuters, that the legislature will hold a brief meeting following Phuc's resignation, as it requires approval from the National Assembly.

He also served as a pro-business prime minister for five years, overseeing a further acceleration of an economic liberalisation drive that included trade deals with the European Union and Pacific powers, including countries like Japan and Australia.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday.

After being blamed for "violations and wrongdoing" by the ruling Communist Party and many officials under his control, Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigned on Monday. The government in a statement said, "fully being aware of his responsibilities before the party and people, he submitted an application to resign from his assigned positions, quit his job and retire." Also read | Vietnam carries out major expansion in South China Sea, says US think tank report Despite his downfall, the government on Tuesday praised Phuc for his achievements. It said, "as prime minister for the 2016-2021 term, he has made great efforts in leading, directing and administering the COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control, achieving important results." Phuc, 68, who was premier from 2016-2021, held the presidential position for less than two years. He was the highest-ranking official targeted by the Communist party's sweeping corruption crackdown. He was chosen in April 2021 to be president and was likely to succeed as the party's, General Secretary. Over the past few weeks, there had been wide speculation that the president would quit following the dismissals of the two deputy prime ministers who served under him. Also read | Vietnam tightens rules for content on social media, move may help regime People familiar with the matter told Reuters, that the legislature will hold a brief meeting following Phuc's resignation, as it requires approval from the National Assembly. He also served as a pro-business prime minister for five years, overseeing a further acceleration of an economic liberalisation drive that included trade deals with the European Union and Pacific powers, including countries like Japan and Australia. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Vietnamese President Nguyen Xuan Phuc resigns, blamed for 'violations and wrongdoing'

Different studies determine&nbsp;the impact of Covid on pregnant women and their children,&nbsp;making&nbsp;it hard to reach&nbsp;a detailed conclusion.

A recent study has revealed that pregnant women are more likely to have serious illnesses and can even die sometimes due to infection. Medical experts&nbsp;also urged pregnant women to take the Covid vaccination to reduce the risk to themselves and their children, Guardian reported.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/humans-altruism-towards-species-may-have-helped-the-thrive-suggests-study-553220">Altruism of humans towards species may have helped them thrive, suggests study</a>

Recent research at George Washington University analysed data from almost 13,000 unvaccinated pregnant women reported in several countries.

Published in the BMJ Global Health, the study also highlighted a greater death rate.

Dr Emily Smith along with her co-workers analysed three per cent of the Covid-infected pregnant women who were admitted to intensive care, was four times more&nbsp;than the uninfected women. She&nbsp;reported that about two per cent of the infected women needed mechanical ventilation to help them breathe.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/uks-nhs-and-genomics-england-to-use-using-genome-sequencing-to-identify-rare-diseases-in-babies-552835">UK's NHS and Genomics England to use genome sequencing to identify rare diseases in babies</a>

Smith said, "We found that women who have Covid in pregnancy are at greater risk of ending up in the intensive care unit or even dying or having some pregnancy-related problems like pre-eclampsia, as compared to their peers who were pregnant at the same time but didn’t get Covid."

It also analysed that around seven per cent of pregnant women died from Covid compared to one per cent of those who avoided the infection.&nbsp;

The study&nbsp;stated that unvaccinated Covid-infected mothers are more likely to give birth to premature babies and can also have their babies admitted to neonatal intensive care.&nbsp;

While reflecting on the findings, the research did not distinguish different covid variants.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Different studies determine the impact of Covid on pregnant women and their children, making it hard to reach a detailed conclusion. A recent study has revealed that pregnant women are more likely to have serious illnesses and can even die sometimes due to infection.

Different studies determine the impact of Covid on pregnant women and their children, making it hard to reach a detailed conclusion. A recent study has revealed that pregnant women are more likely to have serious illnesses and can even die sometimes due to infection. Medical experts also urged pregnant women to take the Covid vaccination to reduce the risk to themselves and their children, Guardian reported. Also read | Altruism of humans towards species may have helped them thrive, suggests study Recent research at George Washington University analysed data from almost 13,000 unvaccinated pregnant women reported in several countries. Published in the BMJ Global Health, the study also highlighted a greater death rate. Dr Emily Smith along with her co-workers analysed three per cent of the Covid-infected pregnant women who were admitted to intensive care, was four times more than the uninfected women. She reported that about two per cent of the infected women needed mechanical ventilation to help them breathe. Also read | UK's NHS and Genomics England to use genome sequencing to identify rare diseases in babies Smith said, "We found that women who have Covid in pregnancy are at greater risk of ending up in the intensive care unit or even dying or having some pregnancy-related problems like pre-eclampsia, as compared to their peers who were pregnant at the same time but didn’t get Covid." It also analysed that around seven per cent of pregnant women died from Covid compared to one per cent of those who avoided the infection. The study stated that unvaccinated Covid-infected mothers are more likely to give birth to premature babies and can also have their babies admitted to neonatal intensive care. While reflecting on the findings, the research did not distinguish different covid variants. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Research reveals, Covid increases chance of severe illness and death in pregnant women

Bringing one of the world's strictest anti-tobacco laws into force, Mexico on Sunday imposed a total ban on smoking in public places. This also includes a ban on tobacco advertising. The step was initially approved in 2021. Similarly, many Latin American countries have also passed legislation to create smoke-free places. However, Mexico's legislation is considered to be the most wide-ranged&nbsp;and strict in America.

Mexico's 2008 law, which restricted smoking in public places like bars, restaurants and workplaces, will now be extended to all public spaces. The new restrictions also include no to vapes and cigarettes, particularly indoors. 
 
Watch |&nbsp;Gas cookers as toxic as 'Second hand smoke'

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There will be a total&nbsp;ban on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products, including sales in shops.

The Pan American Health&nbsp;Organisation&nbsp;welcomed the decision to implement the ban.&nbsp;Applauding the decision, the&nbsp;organisation&nbsp;said this ban will prevent millions of deaths around the world, as smoking&nbsp;causes damage with direct consumption or exposure to second-hand smoke. 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-passed-the-worlds-first-law-to-ban-smoking-for-the-next-generation-542697">Also read |&nbsp;New Zealand passes the world’s first law to ban smoking for the next generation</a>

With the American&nbsp;organisation&nbsp;in&nbsp;favour,&nbsp;many smokers are angry at the Draconian nature of the law. 
 
Many have raised questions about the practicalities of enforcing this law.

Some fear that this will give rise to corruption&nbsp;in the country, and rather than issuing fines or punishments for smoking, police officials might take it as a pretext for taking bribes.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Bringing one of the world's strictest anti-tobacco laws into force, Mexico on Sunday imposed a total ban on smoking in public places. This also includes a ban on tobacco advertising.

Bringing one of the world's strictest anti-tobacco laws into force, Mexico on Sunday imposed a total ban on smoking in public places. This also includes a ban on tobacco advertising. The step was initially approved in 2021. Similarly, many Latin American countries have also passed legislation to create smoke-free places. However, Mexico's legislation is considered to be the most wide-ranged and strict in America. Mexico's 2008 law, which restricted smoking in public places like bars, restaurants and workplaces, will now be extended to all public spaces. The new restrictions also include no to vapes and cigarettes, particularly indoors. Watch | Gas cookers as toxic as 'Second hand smoke' There will be a total ban on advertising, promotion, and sponsorship of tobacco products, including sales in shops. The Pan American Health Organisation welcomed the decision to implement the ban. Applauding the decision, the organisation said this ban will prevent millions of deaths around the world, as smoking causes damage with direct consumption or exposure to second-hand smoke. Also read | New Zealand passes the world’s first law to ban smoking for the next generation With the American organisation in favour, many smokers are angry at the Draconian nature of the law. Many have raised questions about the practicalities of enforcing this law. Some fear that this will give rise to corruption in the country, and rather than issuing fines or punishments for smoking, police officials might take it as a pretext for taking bribes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Mexico tightens ban on public smoking and tobacco advertising

Weather woes don't seem to end for California as the residents battled their ninth successive storm in a three-week period that has brought destructive flooding, and heavy snowfalls and killed at least 19. In other news,&nbsp;a man on Sunday was arrested over the discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport. Finally, the holiday season and the evolution of new sub-variants of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 have once again led to a surge in cases in the US.

Click on the headlines to read more:

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/california-battles-more-rain-and-snow-as-biden-declares-disaster-552960">California battles more rain and snow as Biden declares disaster</a>

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US President Joe Biden on Saturday declared a major disaster in the state where flooding and landslides have turned the residents' world upside down. The federal government has expedited aid to the region, including help with temporary housing and repairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-man-arrested-over-discovery-of-uranium-at-londons-heathrow-airport-552965">UK: Man arrested over discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/16/325785-untitled-design-2023-01-16t090217656.png?imwidth=1920" />

The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-masks-few-takers-for-boosters-current-covid-19-surge-in-the-us-has-experts-worried-552967">No masks, few takers for boosters: Current COVID-19 surge in the US has experts worried</a>

<img src="https://cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/styles/story_page/public/2023/01/16/325786-untitled-design-13.png?imwidth=1920" />

While the new sub-variants have increased transmissibility and the ability to evade some antibodies, proper masking, ventilation, boosters and other precautions have also helped curtail the spread of the disease, experts say. However, people aren't as open to antivirals and masking is not a mandate anymore, causing vaccination and testing to make a return amidst the winter surge.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes

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&nbsp;

Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: Death toll rises to 68 people including 5 Indians

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Weather woes don't seem to end for California as the residents battled their ninth successive storm in a three-week period that has brought destructive flooding, and heavy snowfalls and killed at least 19.

Weather woes don't seem to end for California as the residents battled their ninth successive storm in a three-week period that has brought destructive flooding, and heavy snowfalls and killed at least 19. In other news, a man on Sunday was arrested over the discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport. Finally, the holiday season and the evolution of new sub-variants of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 have once again led to a surge in cases in the US. Click on the headlines to read more: California battles more rain and snow as Biden declares disaster US President Joe Biden on Saturday declared a major disaster in the state where flooding and landslides have turned the residents' world upside down. The federal government has expedited aid to the region, including help with temporary housing and repairs. UK: Man arrested over discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April. No masks, few takers for boosters: Current COVID-19 surge in the US has experts worried While the new sub-variants have increased transmissibility and the ability to evade some antibodies, proper masking, ventilation, boosters and other precautions have also helped curtail the spread of the disease, experts say. However, people aren't as open to antivirals and masking is not a mandate anymore, causing vaccination and testing to make a return amidst the winter surge. Watch | UK to supply battle tanks to Ukraine amid Russian strikes Watch | Nepal Plane Crash: Death toll rises to 68 people including 5 Indians

Morning news brief: California battles more rain and snow, experts worry about US Covid surge, and more

Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said. The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April.&nbsp;

Uranium, a harmful material used to make nuclear weapons, was found along with scrap metal at the airport by the Border Force during a routine check on Dec 29.&nbsp;Officials&nbsp;anticipated that the package which reportedly came from Pakistan could have been intended to be used in the making of a harmful bomb. AFP reported that the package arrived from an Oman Air passenger jet from Muscat. &nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/alert-sounded-after-discovery-of-unaddressed-package-containing-uranium-at-londons-heathrow-airport-551447">Also read |&nbsp;Uranium found in cargo at London’s Heathrow airport sparks alert, origin said to be Pakistan</a>

However, the head of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command, Commander Richard Smith said that based on what the officials currently know, the incident "still does not appear to be linked to any direct threat to the public."

Watch |&nbsp;UK police probe uranium package seized at Heathrow Airport

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He added that the investigation is still underway to "ensure this is defintely the case."&nbsp;

The officials further reported that the search for the man's Cheshire property is completed and no material that could possibly possess a threat to the citizens has not been found.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/west-asia/saudi-arabia-to-use-its-uranium-reserves-for-civilian-nuclear-programme-551718">Also read |&nbsp;Saudi Arabia to use its uranium reserves for civilian nuclear programme</a>

Back in&nbsp;2003, the then head of the UK's MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, citing some intelligence reports, warned that it was only a "matter of time" before a bomb or chemical attack was launched in a western city.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

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Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said.

Almost two weeks after uranium was found in a cargo package at London's Heathrow Airport, a man on Sunday was arrested over suspicion of a terror offence, the metropolitan police said. The man, in his 60s, was been arrested under Section 09 of the Terrorism Act 2006, which covers the making and possession of radioactive devices and material. According to BBC, the man was released on bail until April. Uranium, a harmful material used to make nuclear weapons, was found along with scrap metal at the airport by the Border Force during a routine check on Dec 29. Officials anticipated that the package which reportedly came from Pakistan could have been intended to be used in the making of a harmful bomb. AFP reported that the package arrived from an Oman Air passenger jet from Muscat. Also read | Uranium found in cargo at London’s Heathrow airport sparks alert, origin said to be Pakistan However, the head of the Metropolitan Police's Counter Terrorism Command, Commander Richard Smith said that based on what the officials currently know, the incident "still does not appear to be linked to any direct threat to the public." Watch | UK police probe uranium package seized at Heathrow Airport He added that the investigation is still underway to "ensure this is defintely the case." The officials further reported that the search for the man's Cheshire property is completed and no material that could possibly possess a threat to the citizens has not been found. Also read | Saudi Arabia to use its uranium reserves for civilian nuclear programme Back in 2003, the then head of the UK's MI5, Eliza Manningham-Buller, citing some intelligence reports, warned that it was only a "matter of time" before a bomb or chemical attack was launched in a western city. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

UK: Man arrested over discovery of uranium at London's Heathrow airport

 'It happened crazy fast': California battles more rain and snow, residents evacuate- see pics

Amid&nbsp;severe heatwaves in New Zealand last year, scientists said that water around the country's South Island is almost six&nbsp;degrees Celsius (42.8 Fahrenheit) warmer&nbsp;than usual temperature due to climate change, the weather phenomenon La Nina and a series of high pressure. Joao de Souza, a met service oceanographer, who is a part of the Moana Project, said that waters are&nbsp;above normal for this time of the year, Reuters reported.

The Moana Project said that the temperature is four degrees above&nbsp;average.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/coral-bleaching-loss-of-food-leading-to-unnecessary-fish-fights-marine-ecologists-549440">Also read |&nbsp;Coral bleaching, loss of food leading to ‘unnecessary’ fish fights: Marine ecologists</a>

Souza said that these temperatures will have significant consequences for an ecosystem that is built or adapted to cold waters. He said, "There are always going to be winners and losers,"&nbsp;&nbsp;with those water&nbsp;species that cannot shift their location are more likely to be impacted.

He added that the research showed that it is&nbsp;just not surface water temperatures that are rising but also water as deep as&nbsp;100 metres, meaning that the marine heatwave is also&nbsp;impacting species that live in deep&nbsp;water.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/once-thought-to-be-fossil-death-bed-could-be-an-ancient-maternity-ward-says-study-544854">Also read |&nbsp;What was once thought to be marine reptile death bed could be an ancient maternity ward: Study</a>

The scientist said that all scientists in the region anticipate that the marine temperature is expected to remain above normal till April this year.&nbsp;

New Zealand experienced several marine heatwaves last year with Fiordland's resulting in severe bleaching of native sponges.&nbsp;

The marine heatwave in New Zealand comes as the&nbsp;La Nina weather pattern caused warmer temperatures.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Amid severe heatwaves in New Zealand last year, scientists said that water around the country's South Island is almost six degrees Celsius (42.8 Fahrenheit) warmer than usual temperature due to climate change, the weather phenomenon La Nina and a series of high pressure.

Amid severe heatwaves in New Zealand last year, scientists said that water around the country's South Island is almost six degrees Celsius (42.8 Fahrenheit) warmer than usual temperature due to climate change, the weather phenomenon La Nina and a series of high pressure. Joao de Souza, a met service oceanographer, who is a part of the Moana Project, said that waters are above normal for this time of the year, Reuters reported. The Moana Project said that the temperature is four degrees above average. Also read | Coral bleaching, loss of food leading to ‘unnecessary’ fish fights: Marine ecologists Souza said that these temperatures will have significant consequences for an ecosystem that is built or adapted to cold waters. He said, "There are always going to be winners and losers," with those water species that cannot shift their location are more likely to be impacted. He added that the research showed that it is just not surface water temperatures that are rising but also water as deep as 100 metres, meaning that the marine heatwave is also impacting species that live in deep water. Also read | What was once thought to be marine reptile death bed could be an ancient maternity ward: Study The scientist said that all scientists in the region anticipate that the marine temperature is expected to remain above normal till April this year. New Zealand experienced several marine heatwaves last year with Fiordland's resulting in severe bleaching of native sponges. The marine heatwave in New Zealand comes as the La Nina weather pattern caused warmer temperatures. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

New Zealand's southern waters witnessing marine heatwave, say scientists

In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in&nbsp;Washington, Seattle&nbsp;Times reported. Facebook on Friday confirmed that it plans to sublease both its offices, one at the six-story Arbor Block 333 in downtown Seattle, and the other at the 11-storey Block 6 of the Spring District in Bellevue. 
 
The Seattle Times&nbsp;also said that this announcement came as the demand for offices in Seattle decreased by the continuous rise of remote work and a tech slowdown that resulted in massive&nbsp;layoffs. It also said that Redmond-based Microsoft confirmed the reports that it won't renew its lease at the 26-storey City Centre plaza in Bellevue when that&nbsp;lease ends in 2024.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Microsoft and Meta vacating offices in the US

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The media outlet also reported that both Microsoft and Meta have embraced remote work while it announced layoffs of over 700 Seattle-area workers.

Tracy Clayton, a Meta spokesperson told Seattle Times that the recent leasing decision has been primarily driven by the company's move toward&nbsp;remote.&nbsp;He also said that "Meta is also trying to be...financially prudent."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/apple-and-meta-fall-from-list-of-best-places-to-work-as-per-new-ranking-of-glassdoor-552021">Also read |&nbsp;Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade</a>

Clayton also said that Meta still occupies around 29 buildings, and almost 8,000 workers in Seattle, being the company's second-largest engineering hub.

While a Microsoft spokesperson said that this decision is&nbsp;characterised&nbsp;by the firm's ongoing evaluation of its "real estate portfolio to ensure we provide an exceptional place to work and create greater collaboration and community for our employees." 
 
The Seattle Times also said that even the non-vacant offices are almost half-empty, owing to remote work. 
 
Since last summer, Seattle has&nbsp;only 40 per cent of the workers present before the pandemic.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in Washington, Seattle Times reported.

In the latest change in the tech sector, both Facebook parent Meta and Microsoft are vacating their respective office buildings in Seattle and Bellevue in Washington, Seattle Times reported. Facebook on Friday confirmed that it plans to sublease both its offices, one at the six-story Arbor Block 333 in downtown Seattle, and the other at the 11-storey Block 6 of the Spring District in Bellevue. The Seattle Times also said that this announcement came as the demand for offices in Seattle decreased by the continuous rise of remote work and a tech slowdown that resulted in massive layoffs. It also said that Redmond-based Microsoft confirmed the reports that it won't renew its lease at the 26-storey City Centre plaza in Bellevue when that lease ends in 2024. Watch | World Business Watch: Microsoft and Meta vacating offices in the US The media outlet also reported that both Microsoft and Meta have embraced remote work while it announced layoffs of over 700 Seattle-area workers. Tracy Clayton, a Meta spokesperson told Seattle Times that the recent leasing decision has been primarily driven by the company's move toward remote. He also said that "Meta is also trying to be...financially prudent." Also read | Apple and Meta lose spot among 100 best places to work in Glassdoor survey after a decade Clayton also said that Meta still occupies around 29 buildings, and almost 8,000 workers in Seattle, being the company's second-largest engineering hub. While a Microsoft spokesperson said that this decision is characterised by the firm's ongoing evaluation of its "real estate portfolio to ensure we provide an exceptional place to work and create greater collaboration and community for our employees." The Seattle Times also said that even the non-vacant offices are almost half-empty, owing to remote work. Since last summer, Seattle has only 40 per cent of the workers present before the pandemic. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Remote work and mass layoffs push Meta and Microsoft to vacate Seattle offices: Reports

Climate activists demonstrated against large oil companies at the World Economic Forum (WEF), claiming that these energy giants were monopolising the debate on climate change in Davos, according to a Reuters report.

Among the 1,500 corporate leaders gathered for the annual meeting in the Swiss resort are major oil companies like BP, Chevron, and Saudi Aramco, during which global issues, including climate change, will be discussed.

"We are demanding concrete and real climate action," Nicolas Siegrist, the 26-year-old organiser of the protest who also heads the Young Socialists party in Switzerland, told Reuters.

Watch |&nbsp;World Business Watch: Climate activist protest in Davos over role of oil firms in WEF

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On Monday in Davos, the annual gathering of top business and political figures gets underway, with the summit calling on leaders from across the globe to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient world.

"They (big oil firms) will be in the same room with state leaders, and they will push for their interests," Siegrist said of the involvement of energy companies at the WEF meeting.

Fossil fuels will continue to play a significant role in the global energy mix as nations move to low-carbon economies, according to the oil and gas sector, which has stated that it must be a part of the energy transition.

In a snowy Davos square, more than a hundred protesters screamed, "Change your diet for the climate, eat the rich," while others booed oil companies, according to the Reuters report.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/walt-disney-and-investor-activist-nelson-peltz-to-face-off-on-boardroom-seat-551766">Also read |&nbsp;Walt Disney and investor activist Nelson Peltz to face off on boardroom seat</a>

"I know some of the companies are involved in alternatives, but I think governments, with their subsidies, have to skew the field in favour of alternative energy," Heather Smith, a member of the 99 per cent organisation, told Reuters.

Smith was holding a sign saying "Stop Rosebank", a North Sea oil and gas field she is campaigning to halt plans for.

"There is still too much money to be made from fossil fuel investments," added Smith.

Renewable energy development financing has become more difficult to secure due to rising interest rates, giving established businesses with substantial financial resources a competitive edge.

(With inputs from agencies)

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

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Climate activists demonstrated against large oil companies at the World Economic Forum (WEF), claiming that these energy giants were monopolising the debate on climate change in Davos, according to a Reuters report.

Climate activists demonstrated against large oil companies at the World Economic Forum (WEF), claiming that these energy giants were monopolising the debate on climate change in Davos, according to a Reuters report. Among the 1,500 corporate leaders gathered for the annual meeting in the Swiss resort are major oil companies like BP, Chevron, and Saudi Aramco, during which global issues, including climate change, will be discussed. "We are demanding concrete and real climate action," Nicolas Siegrist, the 26-year-old organiser of the protest who also heads the Young Socialists party in Switzerland, told Reuters. Watch | World Business Watch: Climate activist protest in Davos over role of oil firms in WEF On Monday in Davos, the annual gathering of top business and political figures gets underway, with the summit calling on leaders from across the globe to address immediate economic, energy and food crises while laying the groundwork for a more sustainable and resilient world. "They (big oil firms) will be in the same room with state leaders, and they will push for their interests," Siegrist said of the involvement of energy companies at the WEF meeting. Fossil fuels will continue to play a significant role in the global energy mix as nations move to low-carbon economies, according to the oil and gas sector, which has stated that it must be a part of the energy transition. In a snowy Davos square, more than a hundred protesters screamed, "Change your diet for the climate, eat the rich," while others booed oil companies, according to the Reuters report. Also read | Walt Disney and investor activist Nelson Peltz to face off on boardroom seat "I know some of the companies are involved in alternatives, but I think governments, with their subsidies, have to skew the field in favour of alternative energy," Heather Smith, a member of the 99 per cent organisation, told Reuters. Smith was holding a sign saying "Stop Rosebank", a North Sea oil and gas field she is campaigning to halt plans for. "There is still too much money to be made from fossil fuel investments," added Smith. Renewable energy development financing has become more difficult to secure due to rising interest rates, giving established businesses with substantial financial resources a competitive edge. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Big oil firms will push their agenda at Davos, say protesting climate activists

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