Thailand's emerging student pro-democracy movement has adopted a Japanese cartoon hamster, Hamtaro, as a creative way to get support from young people around the country.

University and high school students have rallied almost daily in the past two weeks to demand the dissolution of parliament, an end to harassment of government critics, and amendments to the military-written constitution that critics say help maintain the influence of the army over the political system.

This past week, three of the protests were themed around "Hamtaro," where protesters ran around public places in circles, like a hamster wheel, while singing a modified version of the cartoon's jingle, saying the government loves feasting on taxpayer's money and demanding Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha dissolve parliament.

"The Hamtaro cartoon is what on television every morning, so it connects with us easily," said Pumiwat Rangkasiwit, 20, a student activist from a group called New Life Network.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/thai-youths-resort-to-subversive-anime-in-pro-democracy-protest-316124">Thai youths resort to subversive anime in pro-democracy protest</a>

Japanese publishing house Shogakukan, which owns the license to Hamtaro, declined to comment on the use of the cartoon in Thai protests when contacted by Reuters.

Student groups have used social media to find new ways for protests, via hashtag #Ideaformob, leaders told Reuters.

Groups are also planning other themes for protests, including Japanese cartoon character Naruto and Harry Potter.

"Young people grew up with these popular culture characters and they help add new dimensions to our movement, making it relatable and easy to communicate with young people," said Jutatip Sirikhan, 21, president of the Student Union of Thailand.

Activist Chutimon Kritsanapanee, 21, from Kasetsart University in Bangkok, said: "Some people may not be able to relate but the main thing is we want to tell others about the failure of this government through these gimmicks."

Thailand's emerging student pro-democracy movement has adopted a Japanese cartoon hamster, Hamtaro, as a creative way to get support from young people around the country.

Thailand's emerging student pro-democracy movement has adopted a Japanese cartoon hamster, Hamtaro, as a creative way to get support from young people around the country. University and high school students have rallied almost daily in the past two weeks to demand the dissolution of parliament, an end to harassment of government critics, and amendments to the military-written constitution that critics say help maintain the influence of the army over the political system. This past week, three of the protests were themed around "Hamtaro," where protesters ran around public places in circles, like a hamster wheel, while singing a modified version of the cartoon's jingle, saying the government loves feasting on taxpayer's money and demanding Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha dissolve parliament. "The Hamtaro cartoon is what on television every morning, so it connects with us easily," said Pumiwat Rangkasiwit, 20, a student activist from a group called New Life Network. Also read: Thai youths resort to subversive anime in pro-democracy protest Japanese publishing house Shogakukan, which owns the license to Hamtaro, declined to comment on the use of the cartoon in Thai protests when contacted by Reuters. Student groups have used social media to find new ways for protests, via hashtag #Ideaformob, leaders told Reuters. Groups are also planning other themes for protests, including Japanese cartoon character Naruto and Harry Potter. "Young people grew up with these popular culture characters and they help add new dimensions to our movement, making it relatable and easy to communicate with young people," said Jutatip Sirikhan, 21, president of the Student Union of Thailand. Activist Chutimon Kritsanapanee, 21, from Kasetsart University in Bangkok, said: "Some people may not be able to relate but the main thing is we want to tell others about the failure of this government through these gimmicks."

Hamster hero? How a Japanese cartoon became Thai youth protesters' symbol

The United Arab Emirates has begun start-up operations in the initial unit of its first nuclear power plant, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) said on Saturday.

The announcement, coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, comes hot on the heels of&nbsp;the UAE's launch of the Arab world's first probe to Mars.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-uaes-hope-set-off-for-mars-voyage-giving-new-hopes-314779">How UAE's 'Hope' set off for Mars voyage giving new hopes</a>

"UAE first nuclear reactor at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has achieved first criticality and successfully started up," tweeted Hamad Alkaabi, the country's representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/UAE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#UAE</a> first nuclear reactor at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has achieved first criticality and successfully started up.This is a historic milestone for the Nation with a vision set to deliver a new form of clean energy for the Nation. <a href="https://t.co/d8FbWEB9lJ">pic.twitter.com/d8FbWEB9lJ</a>
— Hamad Alkaabi (@hamadnuke) <a href="https://twitter.com/hamadnuke/status/1289473881351192577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 1, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, a major oil producer, is being built by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). The plant was originally due to open in 2017 but start-up of its first reactor was repeatedly delayed.

ENEC said its subsidiary Nawah Energy Company "has successfully started up Unit 1 of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, located in the Al Dhafrah Region of Abu Dhabi."

The ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, wrote on Twitter that nuclear fuel had been loaded into the first of four units of what he called "the first peaceful nuclear energy reactor in the Arab world."

The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), which issued an operating licence for the plant in February, said Nawah met all regulatory requirements to start operations, after regular inspections and oversight to ensure the plant's safety.

When completed Barakah will have four reactors with 5,600 megawatts (MW) capacity. The&nbsp;UAE&nbsp;has not disclosed the total planned investment in the project.

The United Arab Emirates has begun start-up operations in the initial unit of its first nuclear power plant, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) said on Saturday.

The United Arab Emirates has begun start-up operations in the initial unit of its first nuclear power plant, the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) said on Saturday. The announcement, coinciding with the Muslim holiday of Eid al-Adha, comes hot on the heels of the UAE's launch of the Arab world's first probe to Mars. Also see: How UAE's 'Hope' set off for Mars voyage giving new hopes "UAE first nuclear reactor at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has achieved first criticality and successfully started up," tweeted Hamad Alkaabi, the country's representative to the International Atomic Energy Agency. #UAE first nuclear reactor at the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant has achieved first criticality and successfully started up.This is a historic milestone for the Nation with a vision set to deliver a new form of clean energy for the Nation. pic.twitter.com/d8FbWEB9lJ — Hamad Alkaabi (@hamadnuke) August 1, 2020 × The Barakah nuclear power plant in Abu Dhabi, a major oil producer, is being built by Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO). The plant was originally due to open in 2017 but start-up of its first reactor was repeatedly delayed. ENEC said its subsidiary Nawah Energy Company "has successfully started up Unit 1 of the Barakah Nuclear Energy Plant, located in the Al Dhafrah Region of Abu Dhabi." The ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum, wrote on Twitter that nuclear fuel had been loaded into the first of four units of what he called "the first peaceful nuclear energy reactor in the Arab world." The Federal Authority for Nuclear Regulation (FANR), which issued an operating licence for the plant in February, said Nawah met all regulatory requirements to start operations, after regular inspections and oversight to ensure the plant's safety. When completed Barakah will have four reactors with 5,600 megawatts (MW) capacity. The UAE has not disclosed the total planned investment in the project.

UAE launches start-up operations at first nuclear power plant

Infiltrating terrorists were intercepted by the Indian Army after a suspicious movement of unidentified persons was detected on the Indian side of Line of Control (LoC) at Machhal sector in Kupwara on Friday.

"Early morning today, suspicious movement of unidentified persons was detected on the Indian side of LoC at Machhal sector in Kupwara. Infiltrating terrorists were intercepted; firefight ensued. Operation in progress," said Chinar Corps, Indian Army.

According to the Army, 3 AK rifles, a sniper rifle, 8 grenades and other warlike stores were recovered. Search in the area is underway.

Infiltrating terrorists were intercepted by the Indian Army after a suspicious movement of unidentified persons was detected on the Indian side of Line of Control (LoC) at Machhal sector in Kupwara on Friday.

Infiltrating terrorists were intercepted by the Indian Army after a suspicious movement of unidentified persons was detected on the Indian side of Line of Control (LoC) at Machhal sector in Kupwara on Friday. "Early morning today, suspicious movement of unidentified persons was detected on the Indian side of LoC at Machhal sector in Kupwara. Infiltrating terrorists were intercepted; firefight ensued. Operation in progress," said Chinar Corps, Indian Army. According to the Army, 3 AK rifles, a sniper rifle, 8 grenades and other warlike stores were recovered. Search in the area is underway.

Terrorists intercepted in Jammu and Kashmir's Kupwara; rifles, grenades recovered

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, in his greeting to the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, urged people to celebrate the festival while following COVID-19 safety protocol, a statement from the Vice-President`s Secretariat informed.

"I extend all my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of Id-ul-Zuha. Id-ul-Zuha is a celebration of unswerving devotion to God and the boundless compassion and loves the Almighty has for His creation.''

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/praying-for-health-muslims-around-the-world-celebrate-eid-al-adha-in-new-normal-way-317260" hreflang="en">Praying for health: Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha in 'new normal' way</a>

The festival inspires us to inculcate empathy, practice sacrifice and promote peace and universal brotherhood. As India and the world continue to fight a relentless battle against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, we have been forced to celebrate almost all of our traditional festivals, which were otherwise celebrated with great splendour, at home in a more subdued manner," the statement quoted the Vice-President.

It further read, "Under these circumstances, we have to be content with a modest celebration and strictly adhere to the safety protocols of wearing masks, practising physical distancing and personal hygiene during all our celebrations. May this Id-ul-Zuha bring peace, harmony and prosperity in our lives, country and the world."

The number of deadly coronavirus infection cases in India has crossed 16 lakh mark with the highest single-day spike of 55,079 positive cases and&nbsp;779 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, in his greeting to the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, urged people to celebrate the festival while following COVID-19 safety protocol, a statement from the Vice-President`s Secretariat informed.

Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu, in his greeting to the country on the occasion of Eid al-Adha, urged people to celebrate the festival while following COVID-19 safety protocol, a statement from the Vice-President`s Secretariat informed. "I extend all my warm greetings and good wishes to the people of our country on the auspicious occasion of Id-ul-Zuha. Id-ul-Zuha is a celebration of unswerving devotion to God and the boundless compassion and loves the Almighty has for His creation.'' Also see: Praying for health: Muslims around the world celebrate Eid al-Adha in 'new normal' way The festival inspires us to inculcate empathy, practice sacrifice and promote peace and universal brotherhood. As India and the world continue to fight a relentless battle against the spread of COVID-19 pandemic, we have been forced to celebrate almost all of our traditional festivals, which were otherwise celebrated with great splendour, at home in a more subdued manner," the statement quoted the Vice-President. It further read, "Under these circumstances, we have to be content with a modest celebration and strictly adhere to the safety protocols of wearing masks, practising physical distancing and personal hygiene during all our celebrations. May this Id-ul-Zuha bring peace, harmony and prosperity in our lives, country and the world." The number of deadly coronavirus infection cases in India has crossed 16 lakh mark with the highest single-day spike of 55,079 positive cases and 779 deaths in the last 24 hours.

Vice President Naidu urges people to follow COVID-19 guidelines amid Eid celebrations

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died.&nbsp;

He was credited with paving the way for Taiwan to become a modern, free society after decades of one-party dictatorship and became a champion of the island's bid to be treated as a sovereign state internationally.

Lee had been in hospital since February after choking on some food and had a history in recent years of chronic illnesses.

He died on Thursday aged 97, of septic shock and multiple organ failure, Taipei Veterans General Hospital vice president Hwang Shinn-jang told reporters.

Lee's 1988-2000 term in office was marked by growing cross-strait tensions as he pitched himself against Beijing, infuriating Chinese authorities for daring to carve out a separate identity for Taiwan.

Despite being self-ruled since 1949, Taiwan has never formally declared independence from the mainland and Beijing has vowed to react with force if it ever does.&nbsp;

China still regards Taiwan as part of its territory.&nbsp;

Born into a colony&nbsp; 
Lee was born in Taiwan in 1923 and educated in Japan, which at the time ruled the island as a colony.

In 1945 Taiwan was handed back to China, then under the rule of Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) leader Chiang Kai-shek.&nbsp;

After Chiang lost a civil war to communist forces four years later, he fled to Taiwan to set up a rival government.

Ruling with an iron fist, Chiang instigated a "White Terror" purge of opponents which lasted until his death in 1975.&nbsp;

Lee, a professor of agricultural economics, was introduced to Chiang's son Chiang Ching-kuo in the 1970s and gained his trust.&nbsp;

By 1984 Lee was vice president and four years later was appointed leader following the younger Chiang's death, becoming the island's first Taiwan-born president.

China missiles&nbsp;

Martial law had already been lifted by the younger Chiang in 1987 but it was Lee who drove forward Taiwan's largely peaceful transition into a fully functional democracy.

His government introduced wide-ranging political reforms, including the election of a new parliament and a direct vote for president.&nbsp;

Lee then won Taiwan's first ever public leadership elections in 1996, which he took by a landslide despite threats from Beijing.

China fired ballistic missiles into the Taiwan Strait in a bid to stop voters choosing Lee, prompting the US to send warships to the area.

Once in office, Lee urged local firms to avoid extensive investments in China, promoting a separate cultural identity from the mainland, which in turn branded him a "sinner" and "splittist".

Lee was succeeded by Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2000 when the KMT lost for the first time.&nbsp;

Lee's commitment to formally declaring an independent Taiwan only became clear after he stepped down and helped found the Taiwan Solidarity Union which advocates a split from China, a move that prompted the KMT to expel him from the party.&nbsp;

After Ma Ying-jeou of the KMT succeeded Chen in 2008 and oversaw a rapprochement with China, Lee became a vocal critic of the government's Beijing-friendly policies.

He was indicted on corruption charges in 2011 but was acquitted and accused the Ma government of "inventing" offences to persecute him.

Since 2016, Taiwan has been run by president Tsai Ing-wen who is also loathed by Beijing because she views the island as a sovereign state.

In a statement she described Lee as "irreplaceable, and his passing is a tremendous loss to our country".&nbsp;

A spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office -- the mainland's top body overseeing policy towards the island -- said Taiwan independence was a "dead end".

"The historical trend of national reunification... cannot be stopped by anyone or any forces," said Zhu Fenglian on Thursday.

China's nationalistic state-run Global Times newspaper meanwhile labelled Lee the "godfather of Taiwan secessionism".

"Lee's death is definitely not sad news to most people in the Chinese mainland," the tabloid wrote.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered condolences, saying Washington would celebrate Lee by "continuing to strengthen our bond with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy".

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died.

Taiwan's former president Lee Teng-hui, who defied China and earned the nickname "Mr Democracy" for the part he played in the island's transition away from authoritarian rule, has died. He was credited with paving the way for Taiwan to become a modern, free society after decades of one-party dictatorship and became a champion of the island's bid to be treated as a sovereign state internationally. Lee had been in hospital since February after choking on some food and had a history in recent years of chronic illnesses. He died on Thursday aged 97, of septic shock and multiple organ failure, Taipei Veterans General Hospital vice president Hwang Shinn-jang told reporters. Lee's 1988-2000 term in office was marked by growing cross-strait tensions as he pitched himself against Beijing, infuriating Chinese authorities for daring to carve out a separate identity for Taiwan. Despite being self-ruled since 1949, Taiwan has never formally declared independence from the mainland and Beijing has vowed to react with force if it ever does. China still regards Taiwan as part of its territory. Born into a colony Lee was born in Taiwan in 1923 and educated in Japan, which at the time ruled the island as a colony. In 1945 Taiwan was handed back to China, then under the rule of Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) leader Chiang Kai-shek. After Chiang lost a civil war to communist forces four years later, he fled to Taiwan to set up a rival government. Ruling with an iron fist, Chiang instigated a "White Terror" purge of opponents which lasted until his death in 1975. Lee, a professor of agricultural economics, was introduced to Chiang's son Chiang Ching-kuo in the 1970s and gained his trust. By 1984 Lee was vice president and four years later was appointed leader following the younger Chiang's death, becoming the island's first Taiwan-born president. China missiles Martial law had already been lifted by the younger Chiang in 1987 but it was Lee who drove forward Taiwan's largely peaceful transition into a fully functional democracy. His government introduced wide-ranging political reforms, including the election of a new parliament and a direct vote for president. Lee then won Taiwan's first ever public leadership elections in 1996, which he took by a landslide despite threats from Beijing. China fired ballistic missiles into the Taiwan Strait in a bid to stop voters choosing Lee, prompting the US to send warships to the area. Once in office, Lee urged local firms to avoid extensive investments in China, promoting a separate cultural identity from the mainland, which in turn branded him a "sinner" and "splittist". Lee was succeeded by Chen Shui-bian of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) in 2000 when the KMT lost for the first time. Lee's commitment to formally declaring an independent Taiwan only became clear after he stepped down and helped found the Taiwan Solidarity Union which advocates a split from China, a move that prompted the KMT to expel him from the party. After Ma Ying-jeou of the KMT succeeded Chen in 2008 and oversaw a rapprochement with China, Lee became a vocal critic of the government's Beijing-friendly policies. He was indicted on corruption charges in 2011 but was acquitted and accused the Ma government of "inventing" offences to persecute him. Since 2016, Taiwan has been run by president Tsai Ing-wen who is also loathed by Beijing because she views the island as a sovereign state. In a statement she described Lee as "irreplaceable, and his passing is a tremendous loss to our country". A spokeswoman for Beijing's Taiwan Affairs Office -- the mainland's top body overseeing policy towards the island -- said Taiwan independence was a "dead end". "The historical trend of national reunification... cannot be stopped by anyone or any forces," said Zhu Fenglian on Thursday. China's nationalistic state-run Global Times newspaper meanwhile labelled Lee the "godfather of Taiwan secessionism". "Lee's death is definitely not sad news to most people in the Chinese mainland," the tabloid wrote. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo offered condolences, saying Washington would celebrate Lee by "continuing to strengthen our bond with Taiwan and its vibrant democracy".

Former Taiwan president dubbed 'Mr Democracy' dies aged 97

Germany said Friday it was suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the former British colony's decision to push back local elections by a year.

"The Hong Kong government's decision to disqualify a dozen opposition candidates for the election and to postpone the elections ... is a further encroachment on the rights of Hong Kong citizens," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement.

"Given the current developments, we have decided to suspend the extradition treaty with Hong Kong."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-suspends-its-extradition-treaty-with-hong-kong-316380">New Zealand suspends its extradition treaty with Hong Kong</a>

Canada, Britain, Australia and&nbsp;New Zealand who are a part of the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance have taken similar action. The United States has given a hint of doing the same in the coming weeks.&nbsp;

This move comes in protest against the new security law imposed by China on the semi-autonomous region.

Critics view this new security law as an erosion of civil liberties and human rights in the financial hub, which has been semi-autonomous from China since its handover from Britain in 1997.

Germany said Friday it was suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the former British colony's decision to push back local elections by a year. "The Hong Kong government's decision to disqualify a dozen opposition candidates for the election and to postpone the elections .

Germany said Friday it was suspending its extradition treaty with Hong Kong over the former British colony's decision to push back local elections by a year. "The Hong Kong government's decision to disqualify a dozen opposition candidates for the election and to postpone the elections ... is a further encroachment on the rights of Hong Kong citizens," Foreign Minister Heiko Maas said in a statement. "Given the current developments, we have decided to suspend the extradition treaty with Hong Kong." Also read: New Zealand suspends its extradition treaty with Hong Kong Canada, Britain, Australia and New Zealand who are a part of the "Five Eyes" intelligence alliance have taken similar action. The United States has given a hint of doing the same in the coming weeks. This move comes in protest against the new security law imposed by China on the semi-autonomous region. Critics view this new security law as an erosion of civil liberties and human rights in the financial hub, which has been semi-autonomous from China since its handover from Britain in 1997.

Germany suspends extradition treaty with Hong Kong

For 16-year-old&nbsp;Negin&nbsp;Afshar, riding a motorbike around a dirt track in Kabul isn't just about the excitement. It is also a way to show that Afghan women can be tough too in a country where concerns are growing that hard-earned rights might be lost.

Encouraged by her parents,&nbsp;Afshar&nbsp;took up motocross about a year ago after having competed for Afghanistan in athletics when she was younger.

Wearing a white helmet and black and red motorbike suit, she trains with male riders on a barren lot surrounded by warehouses and private homes.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/your-story-meet-16-year-old-negin-afshar-motorcyclist-of-kabul-317069/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

"When I saw the men motorcycling here, I decided to pursue motocross to inspire Afghan women and show that they can do this tough sport as well,"&nbsp;Afshar&nbsp;said during a break from practice.

"I tried to be one of the first women to take this path, and I hope we can encourage others as well."

She and her mother worry that pursuing her passion may not be so easy in future, with the hardline Islamist Taliban movement bidding for a share of power in a country where it has led a ruthless insurgency since 2001.

When the group ruled Afghanistan in the late 1990s, girls were not allowed to attend school, women could not work and they had to wear all-enveloping burqas when they left their homes.

In recent months the Taliban has projected itself as more moderate, as it seeks to turn battlefield gains into formal recognition. Talks with a government-mandated committee remain stalled amid violence and mutual suspicion.

Asked whether she was concerned about the rights of girls and women being eroded should the Taliban return to power,&nbsp;Afshar&nbsp;replied:

"God willing, this will not happen, because our government will not allow the Taliban to do so ... If they want to violate our rights, we will stand against them and resist. I will not leave my country, and I want to stay here and serve my country."

Her mother, Frishta&nbsp;Afshar, head of the women's committee of the National Motorcycling Federation of Afghanistan, agreed.

"Some people do not agree with this, and they have a negative view, while others agree and encourage," she said. "In any case, my husband and I will support her as much as we can, and we want to take&nbsp;Negin&nbsp;to the highest peaks of success."

For the time being, such dreams are on hold.

Sayed Nabiullah Sadat, the motorcycling federation's president, said the motocross team had been invited to competitions in Iran and Malaysia, but the coronavirus pandemic had disrupted those plans.

For 16-year-old Negin Afshar, riding a motorbike around a dirt track in Kabul isn't just about the excitement. It is also a way to show that Afghan women can be tough too in a country where concerns are growing that hard-earned rights might be lost.

For 16-year-old Negin Afshar, riding a motorbike around a dirt track in Kabul isn't just about the excitement. It is also a way to show that Afghan women can be tough too in a country where concerns are growing that hard-earned rights might be lost. Encouraged by her parents, Afshar took up motocross about a year ago after having competed for Afghanistan in athletics when she was younger. Wearing a white helmet and black and red motorbike suit, she trains with male riders on a barren lot surrounded by warehouses and private homes. "When I saw the men motorcycling here, I decided to pursue motocross to inspire Afghan women and show that they can do this tough sport as well," Afshar said during a break from practice. "I tried to be one of the first women to take this path, and I hope we can encourage others as well." She and her mother worry that pursuing her passion may not be so easy in future, with the hardline Islamist Taliban movement bidding for a share of power in a country where it has led a ruthless insurgency since 2001. When the group ruled Afghanistan in the late 1990s, girls were not allowed to attend school, women could not work and they had to wear all-enveloping burqas when they left their homes. In recent months the Taliban has projected itself as more moderate, as it seeks to turn battlefield gains into formal recognition. Talks with a government-mandated committee remain stalled amid violence and mutual suspicion. Asked whether she was concerned about the rights of girls and women being eroded should the Taliban return to power, Afshar replied: "God willing, this will not happen, because our government will not allow the Taliban to do so ... If they want to violate our rights, we will stand against them and resist. I will not leave my country, and I want to stay here and serve my country." Her mother, Frishta Afshar, head of the women's committee of the National Motorcycling Federation of Afghanistan, agreed. "Some people do not agree with this, and they have a negative view, while others agree and encourage," she said. "In any case, my husband and I will support her as much as we can, and we want to take Negin to the highest peaks of success." For the time being, such dreams are on hold. Sayed Nabiullah Sadat, the motorcycling federation's president, said the motocross team had been invited to competitions in Iran and Malaysia, but the coronavirus pandemic had disrupted those plans.

Afghan girl takes up motocross and champions women's rights

Germany is at&nbsp;frontline of&nbsp;the US-China cold war between US and&nbsp;China&nbsp;according to a new report by a leading British think tank.

Reports suggest&nbsp;that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

Looks like it has chosen its side in the battle raging between the United States and China.

The relationship between Washington and Berlin has worsened since Trump became the US President.

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Germany's ambassador to the UK reportedly said that ''Shortcomings in Germany's relationship with the US meant that working with the Trump administration is not easy''.

The report comes as the White House formally announced that it will pull out thousands of troops from Germany.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-move-to-withdraw-troops-from-germany-can-cost-billions-and-take-years-316871https://www.wionews.com/world/us-move-to-withdraw-troops-from-germany-can-cost-billions-and-take-years-316871">US move to withdraw troops from Germany can cost billions and take years</a>

Experts believe that US took the ''strategic decision'' after sensing a&nbsp;growing camaraderie between Germany and China.

US is also shifting its&nbsp;special operations command from&nbsp;Stuttgart, Germany to&nbsp;Belgium as a rebuke of one of its closest military ally and&nbsp;trading partner.

Earlier, it was reported&nbsp;suggest&nbsp;that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

The Kremlin is waging a campaign of political interference, while Beijing sees Germany as its main target for economic expansion,&nbsp;as per UK think tank the Royal United Services Institute

Germany is at frontline of the US-China cold war between US and China according to a new report by a leading British think tank. Reports suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China.

Germany is at frontline of the US-China cold war between US and China according to a new report by a leading British think tank. Reports suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China. Looks like it has chosen its side in the battle raging between the United States and China. The relationship between Washington and Berlin has worsened since Trump became the US President. × Germany's ambassador to the UK reportedly said that ''Shortcomings in Germany's relationship with the US meant that working with the Trump administration is not easy''. The report comes as the White House formally announced that it will pull out thousands of troops from Germany. Also read: US move to withdraw troops from Germany can cost billions and take years Experts believe that US took the ''strategic decision'' after sensing a growing camaraderie between Germany and China. US is also shifting its special operations command from Stuttgart, Germany to Belgium as a rebuke of one of its closest military ally and trading partner. Earlier, it was reported suggest that Beijing is focusing on expanding its own influence in Germany, posing a series of political and economic-based hazards emanating from China. The Kremlin is waging a campaign of political interference, while Beijing sees Germany as its main target for economic expansion, as per UK think tank the Royal United Services Institute

Now, Germany on frontline of new US-China cold war

The true story behind the&nbsp;campaign called “women supporting women” has been lost behind the social media trend of posting black and white photos with the hashtag challenge accepted.

Over the past few days, women, including celebrities, have been posting black-and-white images of themselves on Instagram and other social media platforms as a sign of women’s empowerment.&nbsp;

The photos were supposed to be a campaign against femicide and sex-based hate crimes which began in Turkey.

The country would wake up to black and white photos of missing or murdered women everyday.

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Therefore, their friends started sharing their black and white photos to spread awareness and to&nbsp;point out that anybody could be the next victim.

However, the initiative lost all its hue behind the glitz and glamour of social networking platform Instagram.

While people&nbsp;are still accepting the challenge, they seem to have deviated from the original concept of move. Most of them are doing so to follow the trend without even questioning the reason behind it.

Even&nbsp;celebrities,&nbsp;politicians and influencers are not fulfiling their social responsibility and posting their black and white images&nbsp;with random captions. Their posts lack&nbsp;any&nbsp;message or&nbsp;call for action. Simply adding the hashtag&nbsp;women supporting women will not suffice.

The call for justice cannot be reduced to social media activism. While there were no cell phones in 1893,&nbsp;women in New Zealand still managed to secure their right to vote.

There was no social media in the years following World War II but American women managed to force the Congress into passing the Equal Pay Act of 1963.

For change to happen, there needs to be a clear message. People must come out of their comfort zone in order to demand justice. One of the biggest example of social media's exemplary impact is the&nbsp;me too movement.

There is a fundamental problem with the world's adaption of the black and white challenge. The vintage photo obsession has killed the essence of the movement. It has washed the cause and has dyed narcissism into social media activism.

The true story behind the campaign called “women supporting women” has been lost behind the social media trend of posting black and white photos with the hashtag challenge accepted.

The true story behind the campaign called “women supporting women” has been lost behind the social media trend of posting black and white photos with the hashtag challenge accepted. Over the past few days, women, including celebrities, have been posting black-and-white images of themselves on Instagram and other social media platforms as a sign of women’s empowerment. The photos were supposed to be a campaign against femicide and sex-based hate crimes which began in Turkey. The country would wake up to black and white photos of missing or murdered women everyday. × Therefore, their friends started sharing their black and white photos to spread awareness and to point out that anybody could be the next victim. However, the initiative lost all its hue behind the glitz and glamour of social networking platform Instagram. While people are still accepting the challenge, they seem to have deviated from the original concept of move. Most of them are doing so to follow the trend without even questioning the reason behind it. Even celebrities, politicians and influencers are not fulfiling their social responsibility and posting their black and white images with random captions. Their posts lack any message or call for action. Simply adding the hashtag women supporting women will not suffice. The call for justice cannot be reduced to social media activism. While there were no cell phones in 1893, women in New Zealand still managed to secure their right to vote. There was no social media in the years following World War II but American women managed to force the Congress into passing the Equal Pay Act of 1963. For change to happen, there needs to be a clear message. People must come out of their comfort zone in order to demand justice. One of the biggest example of social media's exemplary impact is the me too movement. There is a fundamental problem with the world's adaption of the black and white challenge. The vintage photo obsession has killed the essence of the movement. It has washed the cause and has dyed narcissism into social media activism.

How #challengeaccepted transformed into a beauty pageant

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali&nbsp;Khamenei, in a live speech on state TV on Friday, ruled out negotiations with the United States over Tehran's ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, calling on Iranians to resist US&nbsp;bullying.

"America's brutal sanctions on Iran are aimed at collapsing our economy ... Their aim is to limit our influence in the region and to halt our missile and nuclear capabilities,"&nbsp;Khamenei&nbsp;said.

"Relying on national capabilities and cutting our dependence on oil exports will help us to resist America's pressure."

Decades-old tensions between Tehran and Washington have soared in the past year, with the sworn enemies appearing several times to come to the brink of war.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-to-prevent-war-iran-must-increase-its-military-might-ayatollah-ali-khamenei-279499">To prevent war, Iran must increase its military might: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei</a>

The tensions have been rising since 2018, when Trump withdrew the United States from a landmark nuclear accord and unilaterally reimposed crippling sanctions.

"There is no doubt that sanctions are a crime, a blow from the US to Iran," said supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a televised speech.

"But the smart Iranian has made the best use of this attack, this animosity and benefited... by using sanctions as a means to increase national self-reliance."

Khamenei said Western "think tanks admit that the maximum pressure (policy) of sanctions and US force has not succeeded."

The 2015 deal between Tehran and major powers promised relief from sanctions in return for limits on Iran's nuclear programme.&nbsp;

After abandoning the agreement, the United States reimposed sanctions on Iran's vital oil exports and its access to the international banking system, and pressured allies and rivals alike to fall in line.

Iran has responded by trying to boost its non-oil exports, particularly to neighbouring countries.

"This has caused the country's economy to be naturally less reliant on oil," Khamenei said, casting the development in a positive light.

Khamenei condemned calls for Iran to open new talks with the United States, saying he would not agree to meetings that were aimed only at boosting Trump's re-election hopes.

On January&nbsp;3, a US&nbsp;drone strike in Iraq killed Soleimani, leader of the Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force. Washington had accused Soleimani of masterminding attacks by Iran-aligned militias on US&nbsp;forces in the region.

Iran retaliated for Soleimani's death days after by firing a volley of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq, but&nbsp;Trump opted against responding militarily.

While the attack on the western Iraqi base of Ain al-Asad left no US soldiers dead, dozens suffered brain trauma.

According to&nbsp;Khamenei, Iran was opposed to "whatever may weaken the Iraqi government" in contrast to the US, which he said did not want "an independent, strong Iraqi government elected by popular vote".

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a live speech on state TV on Friday, ruled out negotiations with the United States over Tehran's ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, calling on Iranians to resist US bullying.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a live speech on state TV on Friday, ruled out negotiations with the United States over Tehran's ballistic missile and nuclear programmes, calling on Iranians to resist US bullying. "America's brutal sanctions on Iran are aimed at collapsing our economy ... Their aim is to limit our influence in the region and to halt our missile and nuclear capabilities," Khamenei said. "Relying on national capabilities and cutting our dependence on oil exports will help us to resist America's pressure." Decades-old tensions between Tehran and Washington have soared in the past year, with the sworn enemies appearing several times to come to the brink of war. Also read: To prevent war, Iran must increase its military might: Ayatollah Ali Khamenei The tensions have been rising since 2018, when Trump withdrew the United States from a landmark nuclear accord and unilaterally reimposed crippling sanctions. "There is no doubt that sanctions are a crime, a blow from the US to Iran," said supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a televised speech. "But the smart Iranian has made the best use of this attack, this animosity and benefited... by using sanctions as a means to increase national self-reliance." Khamenei said Western "think tanks admit that the maximum pressure (policy) of sanctions and US force has not succeeded." The 2015 deal between Tehran and major powers promised relief from sanctions in return for limits on Iran's nuclear programme. After abandoning the agreement, the United States reimposed sanctions on Iran's vital oil exports and its access to the international banking system, and pressured allies and rivals alike to fall in line. Iran has responded by trying to boost its non-oil exports, particularly to neighbouring countries. "This has caused the country's economy to be naturally less reliant on oil," Khamenei said, casting the development in a positive light. Khamenei condemned calls for Iran to open new talks with the United States, saying he would not agree to meetings that were aimed only at boosting Trump's re-election hopes. On January 3, a US drone strike in Iraq killed Soleimani, leader of the Revolutionary Guards’ Quds Force. Washington had accused Soleimani of masterminding attacks by Iran-aligned militias on US forces in the region. Iran retaliated for Soleimani's death days after by firing a volley of missiles at US troops stationed in Iraq, but Trump opted against responding militarily. While the attack on the western Iraqi base of Ain al-Asad left no US soldiers dead, dozens suffered brain trauma. According to Khamenei, Iran was opposed to "whatever may weaken the Iraqi government" in contrast to the US, which he said did not want "an independent, strong Iraqi government elected by popular vote".

Iran: Khamenei rejects talks with US over missile, nuclear programmes

Social media giant Twitter on Friday explained how Bitcoin scammers hijacked celebrity accounts of&nbsp;Barack Obama, Jeff Bezos and Kim Kardashian&nbsp;two weeks ago.

The tech firm revealed that&nbsp;hackers responsible for the&nbsp;recent high-profile breach used&nbsp;a&nbsp;phone to fool the social media company's employees into giving them access.

They used the technique of "spear-phishing" to attack, which&nbsp;is a practice of sending emails ostensibly from a known or trusted sender in order to induce targeted individuals to reveal confidential information.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/australia-unveils-law-forcing-google-facebook-to-pay-for-news-317157" hreflang="en">Australia unveils law forcing Google, Facebook to pay for news</a>

Attackers also targeted specific employees who had access to account support tools,&nbsp;<a href="https://blog.twitter.com/en_us/topics/company/2020/an-update-on-our-security-incident.html">Twitter</a>&nbsp;said, adding that it restricted access to its internal tools and systems ever since the incident occurred.

Hackers had accessed&nbsp;Twitter's internal systems on July 15 to hijack some of the platform's top voices including US&nbsp;presidential candidate Joe Biden, reality TV star Kim Kardashian, former US&nbsp;President Barack Obama and billionaire Elon Musk and used them to solicit digital currency.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/amazon-takes-on-spacex-set-to-invest-10-billion-in-satellite-broadband-plan-317163" hreflang="en">Amazon takes on SpaceX, set to invest $10 billion in satellite broadband plan</a>

Publicly available blockchain records show the apparent scammers received more than $100,000 worth of cryptocurrency.

The hackers targeted 130 accounts. They managed to tweet from 45 accounts, access the direct message inboxes of 36, and download the Twitter data from seven. Dutch anti-Islam lawmaker Geert Wilders has said his inbox was among those accessed.

Twitter didn't provide any more information about how the attack was carried out, saying it would provide a more detailed report later, given the ongoing law enforcement investigation. The company has previously said the incident was a coordinated social engineering attack&nbsp;that targeted some of its employees with access to internal systems and tools.

Social media giant Twitter on Friday explained how Bitcoin scammers hijacked celebrity accounts of Barack Obama, Jeff Bezos and Kim Kardashian two weeks ago. The tech firm revealed that hackers responsible for the recent high-profile breach used a phone to fool the social media company's employees into giving them access.

Social media giant Twitter on Friday explained how Bitcoin scammers hijacked celebrity accounts of Barack Obama, Jeff Bezos and Kim Kardashian two weeks ago. The tech firm revealed that hackers responsible for the recent high-profile breach used a phone to fool the social media company's employees into giving them access. They used the technique of "spear-phishing" to attack, which is a practice of sending emails ostensibly from a known or trusted sender in order to induce targeted individuals to reveal confidential information. Also read: Australia unveils law forcing Google, Facebook to pay for news Attackers also targeted specific employees who had access to account support tools, Twitter said, adding that it restricted access to its internal tools and systems ever since the incident occurred. Hackers had accessed Twitter's internal systems on July 15 to hijack some of the platform's top voices including US presidential candidate Joe Biden, reality TV star Kim Kardashian, former US President Barack Obama and billionaire Elon Musk and used them to solicit digital currency. Also read: Amazon takes on SpaceX, set to invest $10 billion in satellite broadband plan Publicly available blockchain records show the apparent scammers received more than $100,000 worth of cryptocurrency. The hackers targeted 130 accounts. They managed to tweet from 45 accounts, access the direct message inboxes of 36, and download the Twitter data from seven. Dutch anti-Islam lawmaker Geert Wilders has said his inbox was among those accessed. Twitter didn't provide any more information about how the attack was carried out, saying it would provide a more detailed report later, given the ongoing law enforcement investigation. The company has previously said the incident was a coordinated social engineering attack that targeted some of its employees with access to internal systems and tools.

Twitter reveals how Bitcoin scammers hijacked celebrity accounts

Philippines President Rodrigo&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;on Thursday told the poor to use gasoline as "disinfectant", amid soaring number of new coronavirus infections in the country.

The mercurial leader reiterated his statement from last week on the use of gasoline for those without access to alcohol. Following his previous comment,&nbsp;Duterte's spokesman had claimed he was simply making a joke.

"What I said is true,"&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;said in the televised recording released to the media on Friday.

"If alcohol is not available, especially for the poor, just go to the gasoline station and pour drops of gasoline in your hands. That is disinfectant." He also sprayed alcohol in his mouth and grimaced, during the address.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/how-philippines-president-duterte-is-playing-into-the-hands-of-xis-china-304890">How Philippines President Duterte is playing into the hands of Xi's China</a>

Duterte&nbsp;on Friday kept coronavirus restrictions in the capital and other provinces until mid-August to contain the spread of the virus, which has infected nearly 90,000 and killed almost 2,000 people in the Philippines.

In a wide-ranging State of the Nation address,&nbsp;Duterte&nbsp;also admitted the government's response to the coronavirus epidemic had been "far from perfect".

Duterte&nbsp;had been expected to use the annual speech to lawmakers to lay out a roadmap for recovery after the economy contracted with millions of jobs lost during more than four months of a nationwide lockdown.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday told the poor to use gasoline as "disinfectant", amid soaring number of new coronavirus infections in the country.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte on Thursday told the poor to use gasoline as "disinfectant", amid soaring number of new coronavirus infections in the country. The mercurial leader reiterated his statement from last week on the use of gasoline for those without access to alcohol. Following his previous comment, Duterte's spokesman had claimed he was simply making a joke. "What I said is true," Duterte said in the televised recording released to the media on Friday. "If alcohol is not available, especially for the poor, just go to the gasoline station and pour drops of gasoline in your hands. That is disinfectant." He also sprayed alcohol in his mouth and grimaced, during the address. Also read: How Philippines President Duterte is playing into the hands of Xi's China Duterte on Friday kept coronavirus restrictions in the capital and other provinces until mid-August to contain the spread of the virus, which has infected nearly 90,000 and killed almost 2,000 people in the Philippines. In a wide-ranging State of the Nation address, Duterte also admitted the government's response to the coronavirus epidemic had been "far from perfect". Duterte had been expected to use the annual speech to lawmakers to lay out a roadmap for recovery after the economy contracted with millions of jobs lost during more than four months of a nationwide lockdown.

Philippines President Rodrigo Duterte tells poor to 'clean masks with petrol'

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