<p>US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week in the White House amid the Quran burning controversy, AFP reported. The two leaders will talk about Sweden’s bid to join NATO and the war in Ukraine during the July 5 meeting.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Biden and Kristersson "will review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible," said the White House in a statement.</p>

<h2><strong>NATO chief calls meeting over Sweden</strong></h2>

<p>Earlier, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday said that a meeting between officials from Turkey, Sweden and Finland will be held on July 6 in Brussels to discuss Sweden’s NATO membership. “The time is now to welcome Sweden as a full member of NATO," he said at&nbsp;a press conference.</p>

<p>Sweden’s entry into NATO will be a symbolic moment for the Western alliance as it will indicate how Russia’s war in Ukraine is driving more and more European nations towards the West.</p>

<h2><strong>Turkey-Sweden tensions over Quran burning</strong></h2>

<p>Meanwhile, the tensions between Turkey and Sweden are running red-hot over the Quran-burning incident in Stockholm earlier this week. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier this week hinted that this would pose another obstacle to Sweden’s bid to join NATO. Speaking to members of his Justice and Development Party, Erdogan drew a comparison between “those who permitted the crime” and those who perpetrated it.&nbsp;</p>

<p>“We will eventually teach Western monuments of hubris that insulting Muslims’ sacred values is not freedom of thought,” Erdogan said.</p>

<p>Turkey has long criticised Sweden for displaying leniency when dealing with anti-Turkey Kurdish groups, which Ankara sees as terrorists. Turkey accuses these Kurdish groups of being involved in a prolonged and deadly insurgency.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Sweden permits Quran burning protests - World News</strong></p>

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<p>Although Sweden has recently made changes to its anti-terror legislation pertaining to these groups, Turkey argues that supporters of these organisations are able to freely organise demonstrations, recruit new members, and obtain financial resources within Sweden.</p>

<p>Now, the Quran burning incident has further strained ties between Turkey and Sweden. Anti-Sweden protests were held in Ankara earlier this week, where the protestors burnt the flags of Sweden outside the Swedish embassy.</p>

<h2><strong>Hungary also yet to ratify Sweden’s membership</strong></h2>

<p>Apart from Turkey, Hungary is also yet to ratify Sweden’s bid to join NATO. Hungarian lawmakers have announced that the parliamentary vote on ratifying Sweden's NATO membership, which has already faced delays, will not take place until the autumn legislative session.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/swedens-nato-bid-in-jeopardy-after-allowing-quran-burning-as-ankara-seethes-609948"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes</strong></a></p>

<p>Since NATO requires unanimous approval from all member countries to expand, it is highly unlikely that Sweden will receive the green light in time for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for July 11-12 in Vilnius, Lithuania.</p>

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US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week in the White House amid the Quran burning controversy, AFP reported. The two leaders will talk about Sweden’s bid to join NATO and the war in Ukraine during the July 5 meeting.

US President Joe Biden will host Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson next week in the White House amid the Quran burning controversy, AFP reported. The two leaders will talk about Sweden’s bid to join NATO and the war in Ukraine during the July 5 meeting. Biden and Kristersson "will review our growing security cooperation and reaffirm their view that Sweden should join NATO as soon as possible," said the White House in a statement. NATO chief calls meeting over Sweden Earlier, NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg on Wednesday said that a meeting between officials from Turkey, Sweden and Finland will be held on July 6 in Brussels to discuss Sweden’s NATO membership. “The time is now to welcome Sweden as a full member of NATO," he said at a press conference. Sweden’s entry into NATO will be a symbolic moment for the Western alliance as it will indicate how Russia’s war in Ukraine is driving more and more European nations towards the West. Turkey-Sweden tensions over Quran burning Meanwhile, the tensions between Turkey and Sweden are running red-hot over the Quran-burning incident in Stockholm earlier this week. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan earlier this week hinted that this would pose another obstacle to Sweden’s bid to join NATO. Speaking to members of his Justice and Development Party, Erdogan drew a comparison between “those who permitted the crime” and those who perpetrated it. “We will eventually teach Western monuments of hubris that insulting Muslims’ sacred values is not freedom of thought,” Erdogan said. Turkey has long criticised Sweden for displaying leniency when dealing with anti-Turkey Kurdish groups, which Ankara sees as terrorists. Turkey accuses these Kurdish groups of being involved in a prolonged and deadly insurgency. Watch: Sweden permits Quran burning protests - World News × Although Sweden has recently made changes to its anti-terror legislation pertaining to these groups, Turkey argues that supporters of these organisations are able to freely organise demonstrations, recruit new members, and obtain financial resources within Sweden. Now, the Quran burning incident has further strained ties between Turkey and Sweden. Anti-Sweden protests were held in Ankara earlier this week, where the protestors burnt the flags of Sweden outside the Swedish embassy. Hungary also yet to ratify Sweden’s membership Apart from Turkey, Hungary is also yet to ratify Sweden’s bid to join NATO. Hungarian lawmakers have announced that the parliamentary vote on ratifying Sweden's NATO membership, which has already faced delays, will not take place until the autumn legislative session. Also read: Sweden’s NATO bid in jeopardy after allowing Quran burning as Ankara seethes Since NATO requires unanimous approval from all member countries to expand, it is highly unlikely that Sweden will receive the green light in time for the upcoming NATO summit scheduled for July 11-12 in Vilnius, Lithuania. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Joe Biden to host Swedish PM in White House amid Quran burning controversy

<p>Hamas, the militant rulers of Gaza, have put their weapons on public display for the first time to ‘encourage resistance’ among the region’s youth, AFP reported. Images showed people, including young children and teens, posing for selfies with rockets, anti-aircraft missiles and launchers.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The exhibition, held at Gaza City’s Unknown Soldier’s Square, was organised by members of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigade. The militant group is considered the largest and the best-equipped in Gaza.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Earlier, the group said in an invitation to the exhibition on social media and posters in mosques, “Resistance is an image and a memory. Take souvenir photos with many of Al-Qassam’s weapons.”</p>

<h2><strong>What weapons were on display?</strong></h2>

<p>A variety of weapons were showcased in Gaza City, including locally manufactured missiles, "Shihab" drones, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, and Russian-made "Kornet" missiles.&nbsp;</p>

<p>These exhibits were part of a display that allowed people to approach and photograph military sites, which are usually off-limits to the public. Families and children were among the visitors who were welcomed by a banner at the entrance of the exhibition.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Israel-Gaza violence</strong></h2>

<p>This event comes after a recent escalation of violence between Israelis and Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, resulting in the loss of 16 Palestinian and four Israeli lives over a six-day period in late June.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Hamas tunnels and weapon-making sites targeted&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>In May, a five-day exchange of cross-border fire between Gaza and Israel led to the death&nbsp;of 34 Palestinians, including six commanders of the Islamic Jihad, fighters from other Palestinian armed groups, and civilians, including children. One Israeli woman also lost her life.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>People 'proud'&nbsp;of the resistance</strong></h2>

<p>Gaza residents who brought their families and children to the exhibition said they were proud of the resistance the fighters were putting up. “I came with my family to take photos with the weapons and reinforce the spirit of resistance in our children,” said Gaza resident Abu Mohammed Abu Shakian. The exhibition is “encouraging and means that the liberation of our land is near”, Shahadeh Dalou was quoted as saying by AFP.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/middle-east/in-first-irans-president-addresses-palestinians-in-gaza-vows-full-support-for-resistance-582706"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;In first, Iran`s President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance</strong></a></p>

<p>58-year-old Bassam Darwish said that people in the Gaza Strip were eager to show their support for the Al-Qassam Brigades.<br />
<br />
Hamas, seen as a resistance movement in Gaza, is declared a terrorist organisation by the EU, US, Israel and the UK.</p>

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Hamas, the militant rulers of Gaza, have put their weapons on public display for the first time to ‘encourage resistance’ among the region’s youth, AFP reported.

Hamas, the militant rulers of Gaza, have put their weapons on public display for the first time to ‘encourage resistance’ among the region’s youth, AFP reported. Images showed people, including young children and teens, posing for selfies with rockets, anti-aircraft missiles and launchers. The exhibition, held at Gaza City’s Unknown Soldier’s Square, was organised by members of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigade. The militant group is considered the largest and the best-equipped in Gaza. Earlier, the group said in an invitation to the exhibition on social media and posters in mosques, “Resistance is an image and a memory. Take souvenir photos with many of Al-Qassam’s weapons.” What weapons were on display? A variety of weapons were showcased in Gaza City, including locally manufactured missiles, "Shihab" drones, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, and Russian-made "Kornet" missiles. These exhibits were part of a display that allowed people to approach and photograph military sites, which are usually off-limits to the public. Families and children were among the visitors who were welcomed by a banner at the entrance of the exhibition. Israel-Gaza violence This event comes after a recent escalation of violence between Israelis and Palestinians in the occupied West Bank, resulting in the loss of 16 Palestinian and four Israeli lives over a six-day period in late June. Watch: Hamas tunnels and weapon-making sites targeted × In May, a five-day exchange of cross-border fire between Gaza and Israel led to the death of 34 Palestinians, including six commanders of the Islamic Jihad, fighters from other Palestinian armed groups, and civilians, including children. One Israeli woman also lost her life. People 'proud' of the resistance Gaza residents who brought their families and children to the exhibition said they were proud of the resistance the fighters were putting up. “I came with my family to take photos with the weapons and reinforce the spirit of resistance in our children,” said Gaza resident Abu Mohammed Abu Shakian. The exhibition is “encouraging and means that the liberation of our land is near”, Shahadeh Dalou was quoted as saying by AFP. Also read: In first, Iran`s President addresses Palestinians in Gaza, vows full support for resistance 58-year-old Bassam Darwish said that people in the Gaza Strip were eager to show their support for the Al-Qassam Brigades. Hamas, seen as a resistance movement in Gaza, is declared a terrorist organisation by the EU, US, Israel and the UK. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘Come and take selfies,’ Hamas militants put their weapons on public display for first time

<p>Germany’s coalition government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is split down the middle on whether or not to allow the production of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets for Saudi Arabia. Riyadh had reached a deal with British arms producer BAE Systems five years ago to acquire 48 such fighter jets. However, Berlin’s approval is also required since one-third of the components that go into manufacturing a jet are sourced from Germany.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The fighter jet deal was put on hold following Saudi’s increasing role in the Yemen war, where it first intervened in 2015. Efforts are being made to resuscitate the deal following the signing of a truce between Riyadh and Tehran, which could pave the way for the war in Yemen to come to an end.</p>

<h2><strong>Germany’s ruling coalition divided</strong></h2>

<p>Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his left Social Democrats (SPD) party and Finance Minister Christian Lindner are backing the Saudi arms deal. However, the Greens party is vehemently opposing the move, reported Reuters.</p>

<p>Germany imposed a blanket ban on arms sales to Saudi Arabia following the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, as a result of a deal signed between the then-Chancellor Angela Merkel and the SPD party. Germany’s approach was considered way tougher than that taken by its allies like Britain, US and France.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;US, India &amp; UAE NSA's meet Saudi Arabia</strong></p>

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<p>Following Germany’s announcement, the UK clarified that it won’t follow Berlin’s lead in banning arms sales to Riyadh.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia</strong></h2>

<p>Arch rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran announced on March 10 to resume their diplomatic relations following a deal brokered by China. The deal, which came as a blow to USA’s status by Beijing in the Middle East, is considered a prelude to de-escalation in the region and an end to the ongoing proxy war in Yemen.</p>

<p>West Asia, although being a very turbulent region, has a great natural ability to surprise people. Major powers have recently shown a stronger desire to actively tone down their rhetoric and disagreements and try to align their common interests through escalating rapprochement.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-saudi-arabia-restore-ties-as-china-brokered-deal-outfoxes-west-570766"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West</strong></a></p>

<p>Saudi Arabia, through its role as a de-facto leader in the OPEC group, also plays a key role in determining oil prices in the international market. At a time when the US-Saudi relations are going through a tough period, European powers like the UK want to court Riyadh to maintain their presence in West Asia and thwart the rising status of China.</p>

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Germany’s coalition government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is split down the middle on whether or not to allow the production of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets for Saudi Arabia.

Germany’s coalition government, led by Chancellor Olaf Scholz, is split down the middle on whether or not to allow the production of Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets for Saudi Arabia. Riyadh had reached a deal with British arms producer BAE Systems five years ago to acquire 48 such fighter jets. However, Berlin’s approval is also required since one-third of the components that go into manufacturing a jet are sourced from Germany. The fighter jet deal was put on hold following Saudi’s increasing role in the Yemen war, where it first intervened in 2015. Efforts are being made to resuscitate the deal following the signing of a truce between Riyadh and Tehran, which could pave the way for the war in Yemen to come to an end. Germany’s ruling coalition divided Chancellor Olaf Scholz and his left Social Democrats (SPD) party and Finance Minister Christian Lindner are backing the Saudi arms deal. However, the Greens party is vehemently opposing the move, reported Reuters. Germany imposed a blanket ban on arms sales to Saudi Arabia following the killing of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018, as a result of a deal signed between the then-Chancellor Angela Merkel and the SPD party. Germany’s approach was considered way tougher than that taken by its allies like Britain, US and France. Watch: US, India & UAE NSA's meet Saudi Arabia × Following Germany’s announcement, the UK clarified that it won’t follow Berlin’s lead in banning arms sales to Riyadh. Rapprochement between Iran and Saudi Arabia Arch rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran announced on March 10 to resume their diplomatic relations following a deal brokered by China. The deal, which came as a blow to USA’s status by Beijing in the Middle East, is considered a prelude to de-escalation in the region and an end to the ongoing proxy war in Yemen. West Asia, although being a very turbulent region, has a great natural ability to surprise people. Major powers have recently shown a stronger desire to actively tone down their rhetoric and disagreements and try to align their common interests through escalating rapprochement. Also read: Iran, Saudi Arabia restore ties as China-brokered deal outfoxes West Saudi Arabia, through its role as a de-facto leader in the OPEC group, also plays a key role in determining oil prices in the international market. At a time when the US-Saudi relations are going through a tough period, European powers like the UK want to court Riyadh to maintain their presence in West Asia and thwart the rising status of China. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Germany’s ruling coalition splits down the middle over sale of fighter jets to Saudi Arabia

7 Times When PUBG Players Killed in Real Life 

A 14-year-old boy in Pakistan shot dead his entire family as he developed some psychological issues after playing PUBG for hours. Among the dead were his 45-year-old father, mother, an elder brother and two minor sisters.


Three friends in India’s Thane stabbed their 20-year-old friend Sahil Jadhav to death following a quarrel over PUBG. They often used to get into heated arguments over the game. 


A 16-year-old boy in Lucknow stole his father’s pistol and shot his mother dead who stopped him from playing PUBG. He later stowed away the body in his house and even used room freshener to cover the stench. 

A 13-year-old boy in India’s Uttarakhand killed his friend with a sharp glass object following a quarrel over PUBG. 

A 13-year-old minor killed his 17-year-old friend because the latter refused to give him his phone for playing PUBG. The accused reportedly used a stone to kill his friend.

Three men were arrested in India’s Jammu for killing a man who asked them not to make noise while playing PUBG. Raj, the victim, was attacked by the trio with a log of wood following the dispute.



A 21-year-old boy from Karnataka beheaded his father after he stopped him from playing PUBG. The killer also sliced off his father’s hand and leg with a sickle. The killer had been failing his examinations due to his PUBG addiction.

While PUBG or BGMI remains popular among teens in India, it becomes imperative to look at related concerns

<p>Former US vice president and a contender for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential elections Mike Pence made a surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine on Thursday. He held discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In a statement released to the media, Pence said, “Freedom is winning in Ukraine, and now more than ever, we need to keep faith with the courageous fighters here in Ukraine who are standing for freedom and pushing back on Russian aggression."</p>

<p>The trip comes amidst the ongoing counteroffensive by the Ukrainian forces against the Russian invading forces even as the Kremlin continues to manage the fallout of the failed rebellion staged by the private militia group Wagner.</p>

<p>Pence was quoted by NBC News as saying, “I believe America’s the leader of the free world.” He added, “But coming here just as a private citizen — being able to really see firsthand the heroism of the Ukrainian soldiers holding the line in those woods, see the heroism of the people here in Irpin that held back the Russian army, to see families whose homes were literally shelled in the midst of an unconscionable and unprovoked Russian invasion — just steels my resolve to do my part, to continue to call for strong American support for our Ukrainian friends and allies.”</p>

<h2><strong>Pence vs Trump on Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>Pence has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine and a fierce critic of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Also, he has become the first Republican presidential candidate to visit the war-battered nation.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Mike Pence on National Abortion ban</strong></p>

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<p>On the other hand, his Republican opponent Donald Trump has shied away from publicly throwing his support behind Ukraine, and instead placed his bets on a “mutually agreed solution.” He has also vowed to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict within one day of him becoming the president.</p>

<p>Former vice president Mike Pence is facing a significant gap in support compared to former president Donald Trump among Republican primary voters, as indicated by polls, as they consider the candidate who will challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming elections.</p>

<h2><strong>Republicans divided over Ukraine</strong></h2>

<p>The issue of Ukraine has become a divisive point among Republican presidential contenders as they vie for the party's nomination for the White House.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-is-mike-pence-the-former-us-vp-who-will-take-on-donald-trump-601009"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Who is Mike Pence, the former US VP who will take on his ex-boss Donald Trump?</strong></a></p>

<p>Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is considered Trump's closest rival in the race, has raised questions about the extent of aid that should be provided to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

<p>On the other hand, former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott have voiced their support for continued assistance to Ukraine.&nbsp;</p>

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Former US vice president and a contender for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential elections Mike Pence made a surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine on Thursday.

Former US vice president and a contender for the Republican nomination in the 2024 presidential elections Mike Pence made a surprise visit to war-torn Ukraine on Thursday. He held discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. In a statement released to the media, Pence said, “Freedom is winning in Ukraine, and now more than ever, we need to keep faith with the courageous fighters here in Ukraine who are standing for freedom and pushing back on Russian aggression." The trip comes amidst the ongoing counteroffensive by the Ukrainian forces against the Russian invading forces even as the Kremlin continues to manage the fallout of the failed rebellion staged by the private militia group Wagner. Pence was quoted by NBC News as saying, “I believe America’s the leader of the free world.” He added, “But coming here just as a private citizen — being able to really see firsthand the heroism of the Ukrainian soldiers holding the line in those woods, see the heroism of the people here in Irpin that held back the Russian army, to see families whose homes were literally shelled in the midst of an unconscionable and unprovoked Russian invasion — just steels my resolve to do my part, to continue to call for strong American support for our Ukrainian friends and allies.” Pence vs Trump on Ukraine Pence has been a vocal supporter of Ukraine and a fierce critic of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. Also, he has become the first Republican presidential candidate to visit the war-battered nation. Watch: Mike Pence on National Abortion ban × On the other hand, his Republican opponent Donald Trump has shied away from publicly throwing his support behind Ukraine, and instead placed his bets on a “mutually agreed solution.” He has also vowed to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict within one day of him becoming the president. Former vice president Mike Pence is facing a significant gap in support compared to former president Donald Trump among Republican primary voters, as indicated by polls, as they consider the candidate who will challenge President Joe Biden in the upcoming elections. Republicans divided over Ukraine The issue of Ukraine has become a divisive point among Republican presidential contenders as they vie for the party's nomination for the White House. Also read: Who is Mike Pence, the former US VP who will take on his ex-boss Donald Trump? Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, who is considered Trump's closest rival in the race, has raised questions about the extent of aid that should be provided to Ukraine. On the other hand, former US Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley and South Carolina Senator Tim Scott have voiced their support for continued assistance to Ukraine. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Republican presidential hopeful Mike Pence makes surprise visit to Ukraine 

<p>South Koreans are panic-buying salt as Japan plans to release one million metric tonnes of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. The water was reportedly used to cool reactors damaged after the 2011 earthquake and ensuing Tsunami.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The move by Japan has prompted criticism from neighbouring nations, including China, who maintain that the move will harm maritime life in the region and the health of people around the world.</p>

<h2><strong>Salt prices up by 27 per cent</strong></h2>

<p>The panic buying has led to a nearly 27 per cent rise in the price of salt in June from two months ago, further aggravated by bad weather and low production. To cope with the rising prices, the government in South Korea has decided to release 50 metric tonnes of salt a day at a 20 per cent discount from the market price until July 11.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Despite assurance from the Japanese government, fishermen and shoppers in Japan and in the region are worried that dumping of treated water&nbsp;could contaminate the sea with dangerous isotopes of hydrogen, which could travel up to the products made out of the sea, like sea salt and seafood.</p>

<h2><strong>Is the treated water fit for release?</strong></h2>

<p>Japan has said the water has been treated to filter out most isotopes; however, it still contains tritium—an isotope of hydrogen—hard to separate from water. Meanwhile, experts believe that the release of water might have no substantial impact on the environment.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Japan's plan to discharge treated water Fukushima threatens Pacific Ocean</strong></p>

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<p>Brent Heuser of the University of Illinois was quoted by CNBC as saying that tritium is not harmful in small quantities. “Tritium is not dangerous in small amounts ... it’s gonna be very dilute, it is simply not a concern, the environmental impact is zero,” Heuser said.</p>

<h2><strong>Japan faces stiff opposition from neighbouring states</strong></h2>

<p>Japan's decision to release the treated water has faced opposition from neighbouring countries, including China and South Korea. The plan has also drawn criticism from environmental group Greenpeace, as well as concerns expressed by local residents and fishermen.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-korea-experts-say-more-study-needed-on-japans-nuclear-water-plan-598945"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;South Korea experts say more study needed on Japan’s nuclear water dumping plan</strong></a></p>

<p>South Korea even summoned the Japanese ambassador to Seoul and is reportedly considering pursuing legal action against Japan's decision in an international court.&nbsp;</p>

<p>China's foreign ministry issued a statement condemning Japan for making a unilateral decision regarding the water release, and spokesman Zhao Lijian challenged Japanese officials to consume water from the Fukushima plant themselves.</p>

<p>Meanwhile, Taiwan has stated that it will continue to express its concerns regarding the matter and closely monitor any related developments, according to a report by Reuters.</p>

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South Koreans are panic-buying salt as Japan plans to release one million metric tonnes of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea.

South Koreans are panic-buying salt as Japan plans to release one million metric tonnes of treated radioactive water from the Fukushima nuclear plant into the sea. The water was reportedly used to cool reactors damaged after the 2011 earthquake and ensuing Tsunami. The move by Japan has prompted criticism from neighbouring nations, including China, who maintain that the move will harm maritime life in the region and the health of people around the world. Salt prices up by 27 per cent The panic buying has led to a nearly 27 per cent rise in the price of salt in June from two months ago, further aggravated by bad weather and low production. To cope with the rising prices, the government in South Korea has decided to release 50 metric tonnes of salt a day at a 20 per cent discount from the market price until July 11. Despite assurance from the Japanese government, fishermen and shoppers in Japan and in the region are worried that dumping of treated water could contaminate the sea with dangerous isotopes of hydrogen, which could travel up to the products made out of the sea, like sea salt and seafood. Is the treated water fit for release? Japan has said the water has been treated to filter out most isotopes; however, it still contains tritium—an isotope of hydrogen—hard to separate from water. Meanwhile, experts believe that the release of water might have no substantial impact on the environment. Watch: Japan's plan to discharge treated water Fukushima threatens Pacific Ocean × Brent Heuser of the University of Illinois was quoted by CNBC as saying that tritium is not harmful in small quantities. “Tritium is not dangerous in small amounts ... it’s gonna be very dilute, it is simply not a concern, the environmental impact is zero,” Heuser said. Japan faces stiff opposition from neighbouring states Japan's decision to release the treated water has faced opposition from neighbouring countries, including China and South Korea. The plan has also drawn criticism from environmental group Greenpeace, as well as concerns expressed by local residents and fishermen. Also read: South Korea experts say more study needed on Japan’s nuclear water dumping plan South Korea even summoned the Japanese ambassador to Seoul and is reportedly considering pursuing legal action against Japan's decision in an international court. China's foreign ministry issued a statement condemning Japan for making a unilateral decision regarding the water release, and spokesman Zhao Lijian challenged Japanese officials to consume water from the Fukushima plant themselves. Meanwhile, Taiwan has stated that it will continue to express its concerns regarding the matter and closely monitor any related developments, according to a report by Reuters. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

South Koreans resort to panic-buying salt as Japan preps release of treated water into sea

<p>Croatia is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, and the city of Dubrovnik is known for attracting thousands of visitors every year. But, the city has now introduced new rules to combat noise pollution which could directly impact people travelling to the city with wheeled suitcases.&nbsp;</p>

<p>People in the city have long complained of noise that wheeled suitcases make when dragged across stone-paved pathways. Residents living in the city complain the noise keeps them from sleeping almost every night.</p>

<h2><strong>What are the new rules introduced in Dubrovnik?</strong></h2>

<p>Mayor Mato Frankovic of Dubrovnik has introduced new rules which have effectively banned tourists from carrying wheeled suitcases on the streets. Tourists not complying with the ban would be fined $288.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Dwellers of the city have hailed the new rule, with one person writing online, “Sounds like a great idea, can we do the same at airports and stations, they are a menace.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Greece: Rise of Right in Europe?</strong></p>

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<p>According to media reports, the city administration plans to introduce a system in November under which bags from tourists will be collected outside the city and later dispatched to their addresses through courier.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The new rules have been implemented under a new initiative called the "Respect the City" programme, as reported by Schengenvisainfo News. This programme has been introduced by the Dubrovnik Tourist Office.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/europe-becomes-fastest-warming-continent-in-world-claims-climate-report-606185"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Europe becomes fastest warming continent in world, claims climate report</strong></a></p>

<p>In addition to managing the growing tourism, the city officials have also emphasised the importance of respecting the local environment and cultural heritage. Tourists are now being advised to keep their pets on a leash, refrain from climbing on monuments, and ensure they are appropriately dressed, including wearing a shirt while exploring the city. These guidelines have been put in place to encourage visitors to demonstrate their "respect" for the city and its surroundings.</p>

<h2><strong>Dubrovnik experiencing influx of visitors</strong></h2>

<p>The Dubrovnik Times has reported the city's consistent appeal to travellers, revealing that it has already witnessed a significant influx of visitors this year. With 289,000 arrivals and 763,500 overnight stays recorded since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has experienced a 32 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022.</p>

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Croatia is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, and the city of Dubrovnik is known for attracting thousands of visitors every year. But, the city has now introduced new rules to combat noise pollution which could directly impact people travelling to the city with wheeled suitcases.

Croatia is one of Europe’s most popular tourist destinations, and the city of Dubrovnik is known for attracting thousands of visitors every year. But, the city has now introduced new rules to combat noise pollution which could directly impact people travelling to the city with wheeled suitcases. People in the city have long complained of noise that wheeled suitcases make when dragged across stone-paved pathways. Residents living in the city complain the noise keeps them from sleeping almost every night. What are the new rules introduced in Dubrovnik? Mayor Mato Frankovic of Dubrovnik has introduced new rules which have effectively banned tourists from carrying wheeled suitcases on the streets. Tourists not complying with the ban would be fined $288. Dwellers of the city have hailed the new rule, with one person writing online, “Sounds like a great idea, can we do the same at airports and stations, they are a menace.” Watch: Greece: Rise of Right in Europe? × According to media reports, the city administration plans to introduce a system in November under which bags from tourists will be collected outside the city and later dispatched to their addresses through courier. The new rules have been implemented under a new initiative called the "Respect the City" programme, as reported by Schengenvisainfo News. This programme has been introduced by the Dubrovnik Tourist Office. Also read: Europe becomes fastest warming continent in world, claims climate report In addition to managing the growing tourism, the city officials have also emphasised the importance of respecting the local environment and cultural heritage. Tourists are now being advised to keep their pets on a leash, refrain from climbing on monuments, and ensure they are appropriately dressed, including wearing a shirt while exploring the city. These guidelines have been put in place to encourage visitors to demonstrate their "respect" for the city and its surroundings. Dubrovnik experiencing influx of visitors The Dubrovnik Times has reported the city's consistent appeal to travellers, revealing that it has already witnessed a significant influx of visitors this year. With 289,000 arrivals and 763,500 overnight stays recorded since the beginning of the year, Dubrovnik has experienced a 32 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2022. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

‘No suitcases allowed,’ Croatian city brings new rule to combat noise pollution

<p>The US is all set to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a decade-old dispute stemming from the inclusion of Palestine as a member. The US, along with Israel, boycotted UNESCO in 2011 after it voted to make Palestine a member. Then, in 2017, the former administration of Donald Trump withdrew from the agency altogether citing its alleged anti-Israel bias.</p>

<p>193 members of UNESCO will gather on Thursday in Paris to vote on USA’s return. The process largely seems a formality as no member has raised an objection, given the US has been the largest donor of the organisation for years. Until 2017, funds from Washington DC accounted for 22 per cent of the agency’s total annual budget.</p>

<p>The Biden administration has already requested Congress to earmark $150 million for the 2024 annual budget of the UN agency. The plan foresees similar requests for the ensuing years until the full debt of $619 million is paid off.</p>

<h2><strong>The threat of China</strong></h2>

<p>The US over the past few years has grown concerned over the rising role of China at the agency, which might put it at the driving seat in policymaking over important global issues such as artificial intelligence and education. “When we’re not at the table shaping that conversation and so actually helping to shape those norms and standards, well, someone else is. And that someone else is probably China,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last April.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;SISI's construction plan: UNESCO World Heritage site Cario under threat</strong></p>

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<p>The US also aims to run for a seat on the body’s executive board in the upcoming November elections.</p>

<h2><strong>UNESCO’s anti-Israel ‘bias’</strong></h2>

<p>Israel has made consistent allegations against the United Nations, claiming that the organisation harbours a bias against Israel. One significant point of contention arose in 2012 when the UN General Assembly recognised the state of Palestine as a non-member observer state, despite objections from Israel.&nbsp;</p>

<p>This decision was met with particular anger from Israel, as it included the recognition of the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron, located in the West Bank, as a Palestinian world heritage site in need of protection. The Tomb of the Patriarchs holds great significance as the reputed burial place of the Jewish patriarchs and matriarchs.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/lifestyle/news-italian-cuisine-to-get-unesco-world-heritage-tag-by-december-2025-589227"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Italian cuisine to get UNESCO world heritage tag by December 2025</strong></a></p>

<p>The Palestinians assert their claim to the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip—territories that Israel captured during the 1967 Middle East war—as the basis for establishing an independent state. Israel, however, stresses that the Palestinians' pursuit of recognition at the UN serves as a means to bypass negotiations and exert pressure on Israel to make concessions.</p>

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The US is all set to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a decade-old dispute stemming from the inclusion of Palestine as a member.

The US is all set to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a decade-old dispute stemming from the inclusion of Palestine as a member. The US, along with Israel, boycotted UNESCO in 2011 after it voted to make Palestine a member. Then, in 2017, the former administration of Donald Trump withdrew from the agency altogether citing its alleged anti-Israel bias. 193 members of UNESCO will gather on Thursday in Paris to vote on USA’s return. The process largely seems a formality as no member has raised an objection, given the US has been the largest donor of the organisation for years. Until 2017, funds from Washington DC accounted for 22 per cent of the agency’s total annual budget. The Biden administration has already requested Congress to earmark $150 million for the 2024 annual budget of the UN agency. The plan foresees similar requests for the ensuing years until the full debt of $619 million is paid off. The threat of China The US over the past few years has grown concerned over the rising role of China at the agency, which might put it at the driving seat in policymaking over important global issues such as artificial intelligence and education. “When we’re not at the table shaping that conversation and so actually helping to shape those norms and standards, well, someone else is. And that someone else is probably China,” US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said last April. Watch: SISI's construction plan: UNESCO World Heritage site Cario under threat × The US also aims to run for a seat on the body’s executive board in the upcoming November elections. UNESCO’s anti-Israel ‘bias’ Israel has made consistent allegations against the United Nations, claiming that the organisation harbours a bias against Israel. One significant point of contention arose in 2012 when the UN General Assembly recognised the state of Palestine as a non-member observer state, despite objections from Israel. This decision was met with particular anger from Israel, as it included the recognition of the Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron, located in the West Bank, as a Palestinian world heritage site in need of protection. The Tomb of the Patriarchs holds great significance as the reputed burial place of the Jewish patriarchs and matriarchs. Also read: Italian cuisine to get UNESCO world heritage tag by December 2025 The Palestinians assert their claim to the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and the Gaza Strip—territories that Israel captured during the 1967 Middle East war—as the basis for establishing an independent state. Israel, however, stresses that the Palestinians' pursuit of recognition at the UN serves as a means to bypass negotiations and exert pressure on Israel to make concessions. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

US all set to rejoin UNESCO six years after Trump withdrew from it

<p>Your debit and credit card details are up for grabs for scammers for as little as $5 or INR 420, as they continue to keep devising new methods to scam innocent people of millions. As reported by the Times of India, several shady Telegram channels and websites are providing scammers with details of the payment cards of shoppers, including the card number, cardholder's name, and CVV.&nbsp;</p>

<p>The situation is particularly dire in the West, as only the aforementioned details are enough to get a payment request processed. For Indians, two-factor authentication through One-Time Password (OTP) is mandatory,&nbsp;however, scammers have seemingly found a new way to circumvent this predicament.</p>

<h2><strong>How do scammers access OTP required for payment?</strong></h2>

<p>Indian police officials were quoted by Times of India as saying how scammers were accessing the OTP by getting the original sim deactivated. The police said, “The hackers put up these debit/credit card details including the victim's name and phone number for sale through shady websites and Telegram channels. Cyberfraudsters buy this data and use it to place a call to the victim's telecom service provider to get your sim card deactivated. They acquire a duplicate sim which they use to gain access to one-time passwords (OTPs), while the victim is oblivious to the deception.”</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;No need for a debit card to activate UPI&nbsp;</strong></p>

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<p>Hence, the next time you find your sim card getting deactivated suddenly, sound the warning bell right away as scammers could be minutes away from draining your bank account.</p>

<h2><strong>Who is operating these illegal websites?</strong></h2>

<p>According to the report, the illegal Telegram channels and websites are operated by hackers based out of Russia and Ukraine. "Hackers from Russia and Ukraine primarily sell card details through some websites and Telegram channels. Cards from affluent Western countries can be acquired for approximately $10, while those from Asian countries, including India, can be obtained for a mere $5," said Indian officials.</p>

<p>In January 2022, one such website was tracked and forced to shut down by the authorities, but several identical channels have cropped up of late.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/good-news-for-indias-credit-card-spenders-abroad-on-tax-collected-at-source-tcs-609907"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Good news for India's credit card spenders abroad on Tax Collected at Source</strong></a></p>

<p>"The Gujarat police have successfully identified five such websites and approximately 45 Telegram channels where these sensitive details are exchanged for cash. We have also identified certain individuals who have availed themselves of these services to defraud unsuspecting victims in Banaskantha, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar,” one police official was quoted as saying by Times of India.</p>

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Your debit and credit card details are up for grabs for scammers for as little as $5 or INR 420, as they continue to keep devising new methods to scam innocent people of millions.

Your debit and credit card details are up for grabs for scammers for as little as $5 or INR 420, as they continue to keep devising new methods to scam innocent people of millions. As reported by the Times of India, several shady Telegram channels and websites are providing scammers with details of the payment cards of shoppers, including the card number, cardholder's name, and CVV. The situation is particularly dire in the West, as only the aforementioned details are enough to get a payment request processed. For Indians, two-factor authentication through One-Time Password (OTP) is mandatory, however, scammers have seemingly found a new way to circumvent this predicament. How do scammers access OTP required for payment? Indian police officials were quoted by Times of India as saying how scammers were accessing the OTP by getting the original sim deactivated. The police said, “The hackers put up these debit/credit card details including the victim's name and phone number for sale through shady websites and Telegram channels. Cyberfraudsters buy this data and use it to place a call to the victim's telecom service provider to get your sim card deactivated. They acquire a duplicate sim which they use to gain access to one-time passwords (OTPs), while the victim is oblivious to the deception.” Watch: No need for a debit card to activate UPI × Hence, the next time you find your sim card getting deactivated suddenly, sound the warning bell right away as scammers could be minutes away from draining your bank account. Who is operating these illegal websites? According to the report, the illegal Telegram channels and websites are operated by hackers based out of Russia and Ukraine. "Hackers from Russia and Ukraine primarily sell card details through some websites and Telegram channels. Cards from affluent Western countries can be acquired for approximately $10, while those from Asian countries, including India, can be obtained for a mere $5," said Indian officials. In January 2022, one such website was tracked and forced to shut down by the authorities, but several identical channels have cropped up of late. Also read: Good news for India's credit card spenders abroad on Tax Collected at Source "The Gujarat police have successfully identified five such websites and approximately 45 Telegram channels where these sensitive details are exchanged for cash. We have also identified certain individuals who have availed themselves of these services to defraud unsuspecting victims in Banaskantha, Surat, Ahmedabad, and Gandhinagar,” one police official was quoted as saying by Times of India. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Debit/credit card details up for sale for $5. Here’s one sign that your bank account is in danger

<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday talked to Russian leader Vladimir Putin and reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to initiate a formal peace process to resolve the Russia-Ukraine crisis. The Indian leader also expressed his approval of the steps and decisions taken by the Russian leadership to tackle the failed rebellion launched by the Wagner chief. In a major development from the US, the Supreme Court on Friday trashed Biden's plan to cancel student loans worth $400 billion for millions of Americans. The decision is being seen as a major political setback for the Biden administration. Also, violent protests continued in France on the third consecutive night as well, which resulted in the arrest of more than 600 people.&nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Click on the headlines to read more.&nbsp;</strong></p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/modi-expresses-support-for-russias-response-to-wagner-mutiny-610613"><strong>PM Modi holds talk with Putin, expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny</strong></a></p>
<img alt="Putin" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="b13acbba-abbc-4ae9-8d02-e366085bb434" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363530-modi-and-putin.jpg" />
<p>Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-supreme-court-junks-bidens-student-debt-cancellation-plan-610639"><strong>US Supreme Court junks Biden's $400bn student debt cancellation plan</strong></a></p>
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<p>US President Joe Biden on Friday (June 30) suffered a significant political setback as US Supreme Court overruled his key program to cancel student loans of millions of Americans.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/france-riots-600-people-arrested-200-cops-left-injured-as-violence-continues-on-third-night-610544"><strong>France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night</strong></a></p>
<img alt="France" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87e10c0d-b4a5-4359-8422-2ecc62c59ad1" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/fdb3fa9f801a4c8c88ddb7e3c83a0e57_0.jpg" />
<p>More than 600 people have been arrested in France as violent protests continued another night following the killing of a 17-year-old boy by an on-duty police officer.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/uk-environment-minister-zac-goldsmith-resigns-accuses-rishi-sunak-of-neglecting-climate-change-610540"><strong>UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting climate change</strong></a></p>
<img alt="UK" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="ea7e53e5-af76-43c0-bfe3-05d2ac922140" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363490-zac-goldsmith.jpg" />
<p>UK environment minister Lord Zac Goldsmith has tendered his resignation citing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's lack of interest in addressing climate change, media reports said.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wagner-group-not-disbanded-yet-recruitment-continues-across-russia-report-610443"><strong>Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report</strong></a></p>
<img alt="Wagner" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="cb299d25-ebbf-45d1-9bbe-ae5dab5c8243" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363428-untitled-design-72.jpg" />
<p>The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-all-set-to-rejoin-unesco-six-years-after-trump-withdrew-from-it-610643"><strong>US all set to rejoin UNESCO six years after Trump withdrew from it</strong></a></p>
<img alt="UNESCO" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="87a30500-6c2c-48d4-a42a-72a04bee9e27" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/358920-unesco.jpg" />
<p>The US is all set to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a decade-old dispute stemming from the inclusion of Palestine as a member.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/europe/sunak-unveils-historic-workforce-expansion-plan-for-nhs-to-address-staff-shortages-610590"><strong>Sunak unveils historic workforce expansion plan for NHS to address staff shortages</strong></a></p>
<img alt="Sunak" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="50109507-7db9-44f8-9356-5e48fdfe6efd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363520-rishi-sunak.jpg" />
<p>To address staff shortages and improve patient care, the British government has introduced a historic workforce hiring plan for National Health Service (NHS).</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-enacts-new-foreign-policy-law-broadening-xi-jinpings-powers-to-counter-us-610559"><strong>China passes new foreign policy law broadening Xi Jinping's powers to counter US</strong></a></p>
<img alt="Xi Jinping" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a72cee65-6403-481f-8b8d-1ee1b6f64925" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363499-china.jpg" />
<p>China has passed a new foreign policy law that expands the authority of Chinese President Xi Jinping and is aimed at countering the US amid the escalating power struggle between the nations.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/top-sports-stories-of-the-day-ashes-lyons-injury-worries-oz-messi-is-here-to-win-says-inter-miami-coach-610391"><strong>Top sports stories of the day: Wimbledon draw out, Nathan Lyon out of Lord's Test, Agarkar applies for chief selector</strong></a></p>
<img alt="Sports" data-align="center" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fbc691aa-1a42-4f94-a384-a28be9cb2c2d" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/363543-wimbledon-draw-out-nathan-lyon-out-of-lords-test.jpg" />
<p><strong>Live now:</strong> Nathan Lyon's injury on day two has left Australia worried in Ashes while Inter Miami coach insisted that Messi and Busquets are here to win titles and not on holidays.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/uk-court-told-kevin-spacey-was-a-sexual-bully-610542"><strong>UK court told Kevin Spacey was a 'sexual bully'</strong></a></p>
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<p>Oscar-winning Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey was on Friday described as a "sexual bully", as prosecutors opened their case against him in London for a string of sexual offence charges.</p>


Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday talked to Russian leader Vladimir Putin and reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to initiate a formal peace process to resolve the Russia-Ukraine crisis.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday talked to Russian leader Vladimir Putin and reiterated his call for dialogue and diplomacy to initiate a formal peace process to resolve the Russia-Ukraine crisis. The Indian leader also expressed his approval of the steps and decisions taken by the Russian leadership to tackle the failed rebellion launched by the Wagner chief. In a major development from the US, the Supreme Court on Friday trashed Biden's plan to cancel student loans worth $400 billion for millions of Americans. The decision is being seen as a major political setback for the Biden administration. Also, violent protests continued in France on the third consecutive night as well, which resulted in the arrest of more than 600 people. Click on the headlines to read more. PM Modi holds talk with Putin, expresses support for Russia's response to Wagner mutiny Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a telephonic conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin, voiced his support for the response by the Russian leadership to the Wagner mutiny in order to uphold law and order in the country. US Supreme Court junks Biden's $400bn student debt cancellation plan US President Joe Biden on Friday (June 30) suffered a significant political setback as US Supreme Court overruled his key program to cancel student loans of millions of Americans. France riots: 600 people arrested, 200 cops left injured as violence continues on third night More than 600 people have been arrested in France as violent protests continued another night following the killing of a 17-year-old boy by an on-duty police officer. UK environment minister Zac Goldsmith resigns, accuses Rishi Sunak of neglecting climate change UK environment minister Lord Zac Goldsmith has tendered his resignation citing Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's lack of interest in addressing climate change, media reports said. Wagner Group not disbanded yet, recruitment continues across Russia: Report The Wagner Group is still recruiting mercenaries across Russia despite President Vladimir Putin's decree that the armed fighters of the group could either join military or leave for Belarus after the mutiny staged by Wagner chief Yevgeny Prigozhin last Saturday. US all set to rejoin UNESCO six years after Trump withdrew from it The US is all set to rejoin the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) after a decade-old dispute stemming from the inclusion of Palestine as a member. Sunak unveils historic workforce expansion plan for NHS to address staff shortages To address staff shortages and improve patient care, the British government has introduced a historic workforce hiring plan for National Health Service (NHS). China passes new foreign policy law broadening Xi Jinping's powers to counter US China has passed a new foreign policy law that expands the authority of Chinese President Xi Jinping and is aimed at countering the US amid the escalating power struggle between the nations. Top sports stories of the day: Wimbledon draw out, Nathan Lyon out of Lord's Test, Agarkar applies for chief selector Live now: Nathan Lyon's injury on day two has left Australia worried in Ashes while Inter Miami coach insisted that Messi and Busquets are here to win titles and not on holidays. UK court told Kevin Spacey was a 'sexual bully' Oscar-winning Hollywood actor Kevin Spacey was on Friday described as a "sexual bully", as prosecutors opened their case against him in London for a string of sexual offence charges.

Top 10 world news: US SC trashes Biden's student loan programme, Indian PM Modi talks to Putin, and more

<p>An Indian-American attorney is being hailed as a “national hero” and “true patriot” in the US after he successfully argued a case before the US Supreme Court against a legal theory being promoted by conservatives, especially those who support former US President Donald Trump. The US-born attorney, named Neal Katyal, was representing the watchdog group ‘Common Cause’ and won the judgement 6-3, with support from three liberal and three conservative judges.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Such was the significance of the case that one legal expert labelled it as the most important constitutional case in US history, while it helped the attorney earn rare praise from former Democratic president Barack Obama himself.</p>

<h2><strong>What was the legal case?</strong></h2>

<p>The case, Moore v. Harper, was about overhauling the US election system altogether while giving state legislature primacy over courts to set election rules.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Had conservatives won the case, state legislatures would have become immune to interventions by courts on state election rules. However, the theory was rebuffed by six Supreme Court judges, maintaining that the power of state legislature was restrained by federal and state courts.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Donald Trump says, 'US rigged, corrupt &amp; in decline'</strong></p>

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<p>America’s top legal and constitutional experts heaved a sigh of relief as the judgement came, with Obama himself tweeting on the issue. “Today, the Supreme Court rejected the fringe independent state legislature theory that threatened to upend our democracy and dismantle our system of checks and balances. This ruling rejects the far-right theory that threatened to undermine our democracy, and makes clear that courts can continue defending voters' rights—in North Carolina and in every state," Obama wrote in his tweet.</p>

<h2><strong>‘Single most important constitutional case for American democracy’</strong></h2>

<p>The case was hailed as the “Single most important constitutional case for American democracy” by Judge Luttig, a distinguished jurist who was also associated with the fight. He also lauded Katyal for being “masterful” while arguing the case before the court. He said Katyal made "the single best oral argument I have ever heard made before the Supreme Court of the United States.”</p>

<h2><strong>Who is Neal Katyal?</strong></h2>

<p>Neal Katyal is the son of Indian immigrants, and his mother is a paediatrician while his father is an engineer. He attended Dartmouth College and pursued his law degree at Yale, where he had the opportunity to learn from Akhil Amar, a renowned Indian-origin constitutional scholar in the United States.&nbsp;</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-lies-about-election-abortion-rape-case-at-cnn-town-hall-a-fact-check-591172"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Trump lies about election, abortion, sexual abuse case at CNN town hall: A fact-check</strong></a></p>

<p>Presently, Katyal holds a position as a partner at the prestigious law firm Hogan Lovells. Additionally, he serves as a professor of National Security Law at Georgetown University Law Center, where he holds the distinction of being one of the youngest professors to have achieved tenure and a chaired professorship in the university's history.</p>

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An Indian-American attorney is being hailed as a “national hero” and “true patriot” in the US after he successfully argued a case before the US Supreme Court against a legal theory being promoted by conservatives, especially those who support former US President Donald Trump.

An Indian-American attorney is being hailed as a “national hero” and “true patriot” in the US after he successfully argued a case before the US Supreme Court against a legal theory being promoted by conservatives, especially those who support former US President Donald Trump. The US-born attorney, named Neal Katyal, was representing the watchdog group ‘Common Cause’ and won the judgement 6-3, with support from three liberal and three conservative judges. Such was the significance of the case that one legal expert labelled it as the most important constitutional case in US history, while it helped the attorney earn rare praise from former Democratic president Barack Obama himself. What was the legal case? The case, Moore v. Harper, was about overhauling the US election system altogether while giving state legislature primacy over courts to set election rules. Had conservatives won the case, state legislatures would have become immune to interventions by courts on state election rules. However, the theory was rebuffed by six Supreme Court judges, maintaining that the power of state legislature was restrained by federal and state courts. Watch: Donald Trump says, 'US rigged, corrupt & in decline' × America’s top legal and constitutional experts heaved a sigh of relief as the judgement came, with Obama himself tweeting on the issue. “Today, the Supreme Court rejected the fringe independent state legislature theory that threatened to upend our democracy and dismantle our system of checks and balances. This ruling rejects the far-right theory that threatened to undermine our democracy, and makes clear that courts can continue defending voters' rights—in North Carolina and in every state," Obama wrote in his tweet. ‘Single most important constitutional case for American democracy’ The case was hailed as the “Single most important constitutional case for American democracy” by Judge Luttig, a distinguished jurist who was also associated with the fight. He also lauded Katyal for being “masterful” while arguing the case before the court. He said Katyal made "the single best oral argument I have ever heard made before the Supreme Court of the United States.” Who is Neal Katyal? Neal Katyal is the son of Indian immigrants, and his mother is a paediatrician while his father is an engineer. He attended Dartmouth College and pursued his law degree at Yale, where he had the opportunity to learn from Akhil Amar, a renowned Indian-origin constitutional scholar in the United States. Also read: Trump lies about election, abortion, sexual abuse case at CNN town hall: A fact-check Presently, Katyal holds a position as a partner at the prestigious law firm Hogan Lovells. Additionally, he serves as a professor of National Security Law at Georgetown University Law Center, where he holds the distinction of being one of the youngest professors to have achieved tenure and a chaired professorship in the university's history. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Why Americans, including Obama, are in awe of Indian-American attorney Neal Katyal

<p>In a bizarre turn of events, Australian police arrested two suspected kidnappers who were found sleeping inside a vehicle, authorities confirmed on Friday. The incident unfolded in Brisbane, Queensland, when the two men allegedly abducted a man and a woman early morning on Thursday.</p>

<p>Inside the vehicle, the law enforcement officers stumbled upon an array of disturbing items, including zip ties, bleach, hacksaw blades, wire snips, and even a blowtorch. Additionally, a significant amount of cash and drugs was also found, suggesting a potentially sinister motive behind the kidnapping.</p>

<h2><strong>Highlights</strong></h2>

<ol>
	<li>Two men kidnapped a man and a woman on Thursday</li>
	<li>They parked their vehicle after driving the hostages 80 km</li>
	<li>They fell asleep in the car while the victims managed to escape and call police</li>
	<li>Police officials arrested the two men who were caught napping&nbsp;</li>
	<li>Two men now face an array of serious charges</li>
</ol>

<h2><strong>Victims managed to escape their kidnappers</strong></h2>

<p>The victims, aged 33 and 42, were transported approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) south to a suburb on the Gold Coast, where the captors eventually parked the vehicle in a car park. Thankfully, the man and woman managed to escape their kidnappers just after 8 am (local time) and immediately contacted the police.</p>

<p>When police officials came at the site, they found the kidnappers snoozing inside the car, seemingly unaware of the fact that their hostages had fled from their clutches.</p>

<p><strong>Watch:&nbsp;Australia scraps a 770 million-dollar space satellite programme amid an economic slowdown</strong></p>

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<p>Bodycam footage captured the moment an officer approached the vehicle, gently waking one of the slumbering suspects by saying, "Hey buddy, police."</p>

<h2><strong>Charges faced by the kidnappers</strong></h2>

<p>Subsequently, the men, aged 35 and 36, were swiftly taken into custody. They now face an array of serious charges, including two counts of kidnapping, two counts of deprivation of liberty, two counts of torture, as well as one count each of assault, occasioning bodily harm and robbery.</p>

<p><a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/budget-constraints-force-australia-to-abandon-billion-dollar-space-satellite-programme-610327"><strong>Also read:&nbsp;Budget constraints force Australia to abandon billion-dollar space satellite programme</strong></a></p>

<p>The alleged kidnappers were denied bail, and they are scheduled to appear before the court on Friday to face the charges brought against them.</p>

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In a bizarre turn of events, Australian police arrested two suspected kidnappers who were found sleeping inside a vehicle, authorities confirmed on Friday. The incident unfolded in Brisbane, Queensland, when the two men allegedly abducted a man and a woman early morning on Thursday.

In a bizarre turn of events, Australian police arrested two suspected kidnappers who were found sleeping inside a vehicle, authorities confirmed on Friday. The incident unfolded in Brisbane, Queensland, when the two men allegedly abducted a man and a woman early morning on Thursday. Inside the vehicle, the law enforcement officers stumbled upon an array of disturbing items, including zip ties, bleach, hacksaw blades, wire snips, and even a blowtorch. Additionally, a significant amount of cash and drugs was also found, suggesting a potentially sinister motive behind the kidnapping. Highlights Two men kidnapped a man and a woman on Thursday They parked their vehicle after driving the hostages 80 km They fell asleep in the car while the victims managed to escape and call police Police officials arrested the two men who were caught napping Two men now face an array of serious charges Victims managed to escape their kidnappers The victims, aged 33 and 42, were transported approximately 80 kilometres (50 miles) south to a suburb on the Gold Coast, where the captors eventually parked the vehicle in a car park. Thankfully, the man and woman managed to escape their kidnappers just after 8 am (local time) and immediately contacted the police. When police officials came at the site, they found the kidnappers snoozing inside the car, seemingly unaware of the fact that their hostages had fled from their clutches. Watch: Australia scraps a 770 million-dollar space satellite programme amid an economic slowdown × Bodycam footage captured the moment an officer approached the vehicle, gently waking one of the slumbering suspects by saying, "Hey buddy, police." Charges faced by the kidnappers Subsequently, the men, aged 35 and 36, were swiftly taken into custody. They now face an array of serious charges, including two counts of kidnapping, two counts of deprivation of liberty, two counts of torture, as well as one count each of assault, occasioning bodily harm and robbery. Also read: Budget constraints force Australia to abandon billion-dollar space satellite programme The alleged kidnappers were denied bail, and they are scheduled to appear before the court on Friday to face the charges brought against them. WATCH WION LIVE HERE ×

Australia: Kidnappers caught napping in car as hostages dial police after escaping

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