Seizing on Donald Trump’s conciliatory tone after Tehran released an American Navy veteran, Iran’s foreign minister&nbsp;Javad Zarif challenged the US&nbsp;president on Friday to return to the nuclear deal that Washington abandoned two years ago.

Iran freed Michael White on Thursday as part of a deal in which the United States allowed Iranian-American physician Majid Taheri to visit Iran.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/deal-is-possible-trump-says-thank-you-to-iran-as-us-navy-veteran-michael-white-released-from-prison-303443">Deal is possible: Trump says 'thank you to Iran' as US Navy veteran Michael White released from prison</a>

Trump tweeted on Thursday of White's release: "Thank you to Iran, it shows a deal is possible!"

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I just got off the phone with former American hostage Michael White, who is now in Zurich after being released from Iran. He will be on a U.S. plane shortly, and is COMING HOME...
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Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, addressing Trump, said on Twitter, "We achieved humanitarian swap despite your subordinates' efforts".

"We had a deal when you entered office. ... Your advisors -most fired by now - made a dumb bet. Up to you to decide when you want to fix it."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/american-detained-in-iran-since-2018-freed-to-rejoin-family-in-us-very-soon-trump-303410" hreflang="en">American detained in Iran since 2018 freed, to rejoin family in US 'very soon': Trump</a>

Trump pulled out in 2018 of the nuclear deal with major powers, under which Tehran curbed its nuclear work in return for the lifting of many international sanctions on Iran. Since quitting the agreement, Washington has reimposed sanctions to throttle Iran’s oil exports as part of a policy of “maximum pressure”.

Thursday’s prisoner swap was a rare instance of US-Iranian cooperation. Also on Friday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi confirmed that Zarif met Bill Richardson, a former US&nbsp;envoy to the United Nations, "months ago" over prisoner releases.

"We have always responded positively to humanitarian efforts that would lead to the release of Iranian hostages in the United States and elsewhere," Mousavi told the official IRNA news agency.

Seizing on Donald Trump’s conciliatory tone after Tehran released an American Navy veteran, Iran’s foreign minister Javad Zarif challenged the US president on Friday to return to the nuclear deal that Washington abandoned two years ago.

Seizing on Donald Trump’s conciliatory tone after Tehran released an American Navy veteran, Iran’s foreign minister Javad Zarif challenged the US president on Friday to return to the nuclear deal that Washington abandoned two years ago. Iran freed Michael White on Thursday as part of a deal in which the United States allowed Iranian-American physician Majid Taheri to visit Iran. Also read: Deal is possible: Trump says 'thank you to Iran' as US Navy veteran Michael White released from prison Trump tweeted on Thursday of White's release: "Thank you to Iran, it shows a deal is possible!" I just got off the phone with former American hostage Michael White, who is now in Zurich after being released from Iran. He will be on a U.S. plane shortly, and is COMING HOME... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 4, 2020 × Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif, addressing Trump, said on Twitter, "We achieved humanitarian swap despite your subordinates' efforts". "We had a deal when you entered office. ... Your advisors -most fired by now - made a dumb bet. Up to you to decide when you want to fix it." Also read: American detained in Iran since 2018 freed, to rejoin family in US 'very soon': Trump Trump pulled out in 2018 of the nuclear deal with major powers, under which Tehran curbed its nuclear work in return for the lifting of many international sanctions on Iran. Since quitting the agreement, Washington has reimposed sanctions to throttle Iran’s oil exports as part of a policy of “maximum pressure”. Thursday’s prisoner swap was a rare instance of US-Iranian cooperation. Also on Friday, Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Abbas Mousavi confirmed that Zarif met Bill Richardson, a former US envoy to the United Nations, "months ago" over prisoner releases. "We have always responded positively to humanitarian efforts that would lead to the release of Iranian hostages in the United States and elsewhere," Mousavi told the official IRNA news agency.

Iran challenges Donald Trump to return to nuclear deal

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders&nbsp;with&nbsp;all&nbsp;European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries,&nbsp;Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein&nbsp;and the United Kingdom from June 15.&nbsp;

The decision was reached after a virtual meeting between interior ministers from the Schengen area, with a large number of European countries deciding to follow a similar path, Bern said in a statement.

Swiss authorities had already announced in mid-May plans to reopen the country's borders with its immediate neighbours, except Italy, on that date, and to the rest of the Schengen passport-free area by early July.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-push-forward-to-reopen-internal-borders-298638">European Union push forward to reopen internal borders</a>

But with most European countries appearing to gain significant control over their COVID-19 outbreaks, Bern said in a statement that the "epidemiological situation" made a faster and broader opening possible.

A spokeswoman for the justice ministry confirmed that Italy, the country in Europe that has been hardest-hit by the pandemic was included in the decision.

Switzerland’s&nbsp;southern&nbsp;neighbour&nbsp;Italy lifted its border controls with Switzerland on June 3, but the Swiss government said a similar move on the Swiss side would be premature.

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders with all European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein and the United Kingdom from June 15.

Switzerland will lift coronavirus-imposed restrictions at its borders with all European Union, European Free Trade Association (EFTA) countries, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein and the United Kingdom from June 15. The decision was reached after a virtual meeting between interior ministers from the Schengen area, with a large number of European countries deciding to follow a similar path, Bern said in a statement. Swiss authorities had already announced in mid-May plans to reopen the country's borders with its immediate neighbours, except Italy, on that date, and to the rest of the Schengen passport-free area by early July. Also read: European Union push forward to reopen internal borders But with most European countries appearing to gain significant control over their COVID-19 outbreaks, Bern said in a statement that the "epidemiological situation" made a faster and broader opening possible. A spokeswoman for the justice ministry confirmed that Italy, the country in Europe that has been hardest-hit by the pandemic was included in the decision. Switzerland’s southern neighbour Italy lifted its border controls with Switzerland on June 3, but the Swiss government said a similar move on the Swiss side would be premature.

Switzerland to further open borders to European Union from June 15

China is using the coronavirus as a cover to push territorial claims in the South China Sea through a surge in naval activity meant to intimidate other countries that claim the waters, the commander of US&nbsp;Forces in Japan said on Friday.

There has been a surge of activity by China in the South China Sea with navy ships, coast guard vessels and a naval militia of fishing boats in harassing vessels in waters claimed by Beijing, said Lieutenant General Kevin Schneider.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-navy-warship-again-challenges-beijings-south-china-sea-claims-301746">US Navy warship again challenges Beijing's South China Sea claims</a>

"Through the course of the COVID crisis we saw&nbsp;a surge of maritime activity," he said in an interview. He said Beijing had also increased its activity in the East China Sea, where it has a territorial dispute with Japan.

Beijing's increased level of activity would likely continue, predicted Schneider: "I don't see troughs, I see plateaus," he said.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-coronavirus-japan-us-flex-their-military-muscle-in-south-china-sea-296663">Despite coronavirus! Japan, US flex their military muscle in South China sea</a>

US&nbsp;Secretary of State&nbsp;Mike Pompeo&nbsp;on Thursday criticized Chinese "coercion" in the&nbsp;disputed South China Sea, highlighting a divide with&nbsp;Beijing.

China says its maritime activities in the area are peaceful. The press office at the Chinese embassy in Tokyo was not immediately available to comment outside of normal business hours.

Japan hosts the biggest concentration of US&nbsp;forces in Asia, including an aircraft carrier strike group, an amphibious expeditionary force and fighter squadrons. In addition to defending Japan, they are deployed to deter China from expanding its influence in the region, including in the South China Sea.

The latest US&nbsp;criticism of China comes as relations have frayed amid accusations by Washington that Beijing failed to warn it quickly enough about the coronavirus. China has dismissed that criticism as an attempt by President Donald Trump's administration to cover up its own mistakes.

Beijing has built military island bases on reefs in the energy-rich South China Sea, in or near waters claimed by other countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. It imposed a unilateral fishing ban until Aug 16.

China is using the coronavirus as a cover to push territorial claims in the South China Sea through a surge in naval activity meant to intimidate other countries that claim the waters, the commander of US Forces in Japan said on Friday.

China is using the coronavirus as a cover to push territorial claims in the South China Sea through a surge in naval activity meant to intimidate other countries that claim the waters, the commander of US Forces in Japan said on Friday. There has been a surge of activity by China in the South China Sea with navy ships, coast guard vessels and a naval militia of fishing boats in harassing vessels in waters claimed by Beijing, said Lieutenant General Kevin Schneider. Also read: US Navy warship again challenges Beijing's South China Sea claims "Through the course of the COVID crisis we saw a surge of maritime activity," he said in an interview. He said Beijing had also increased its activity in the East China Sea, where it has a territorial dispute with Japan. Beijing's increased level of activity would likely continue, predicted Schneider: "I don't see troughs, I see plateaus," he said. Also read: Despite coronavirus! Japan, US flex their military muscle in South China sea US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo on Thursday criticized Chinese "coercion" in the disputed South China Sea, highlighting a divide with Beijing. China says its maritime activities in the area are peaceful. The press office at the Chinese embassy in Tokyo was not immediately available to comment outside of normal business hours. Japan hosts the biggest concentration of US forces in Asia, including an aircraft carrier strike group, an amphibious expeditionary force and fighter squadrons. In addition to defending Japan, they are deployed to deter China from expanding its influence in the region, including in the South China Sea. The latest US criticism of China comes as relations have frayed amid accusations by Washington that Beijing failed to warn it quickly enough about the coronavirus. China has dismissed that criticism as an attempt by President Donald Trump's administration to cover up its own mistakes. Beijing has built military island bases on reefs in the energy-rich South China Sea, in or near waters claimed by other countries, including the Philippines, Vietnam and Malaysia. It imposed a unilateral fishing ban until Aug 16.

China pushing territorial claims under cover of COVID-19, says US military commander

Three Chinese nationals were imprisoned on Thursday for entering a restricted area at a naval base in Key West, Florida, to take photos.

Chinese national Liao Lyuyou, 27, Jielun Zhang, 25,&nbsp;and Yuhao Wang, 24, were sentenced to 12 months and nine months in prison, respectively.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-and-trumps-campaigns-targeted-by-chinese-and-iranian-hackers-google-303417" hreflang="en">Biden and Trump's campaigns targeted by Chinese and Iranian hackers: Google</a>

All of them&nbsp;pleaded&nbsp;guilty to illegally entering the restricted area within Naval Air Station Key West in December and taking photographs and video, according to the US Attorney's office of the Southern District of Florida.

Navy security officers obtained consent to look at the cell phones and the camera in their possession and observed photos of the Sigsbee Annex property, including US military structures on Fleming Key.

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The incidents happened shortly&nbsp;after two Chinese Embassy officials&nbsp;were "secretly expelled" by the US last year after they entered a "sensitive" military base near Norfolk, Virginia, according to The New York Times.

The Times&nbsp;said half a dozen people with knowledge of the expulsions said US officials believe "at least one of the Chinese officials, who were with their wives, was an intelligence officer operating under diplomatic cover."

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Three Chinese nationals were imprisoned on Thursday for entering a restricted area at a naval base in Key West, Florida, to take photos. Chinese national Liao Lyuyou, 27, Jielun Zhang, 25, and Yuhao Wang, 24, were sentenced to 12 months and nine months in prison, respectively.

Three Chinese nationals were imprisoned on Thursday for entering a restricted area at a naval base in Key West, Florida, to take photos. Chinese national Liao Lyuyou, 27, Jielun Zhang, 25, and Yuhao Wang, 24, were sentenced to 12 months and nine months in prison, respectively. Also read: Biden and Trump's campaigns targeted by Chinese and Iranian hackers: Google All of them pleaded guilty to illegally entering the restricted area within Naval Air Station Key West in December and taking photographs and video, according to the US Attorney's office of the Southern District of Florida. Navy security officers obtained consent to look at the cell phones and the camera in their possession and observed photos of the Sigsbee Annex property, including US military structures on Fleming Key. The incidents happened shortly after two Chinese Embassy officials were "secretly expelled" by the US last year after they entered a "sensitive" military base near Norfolk, Virginia, according to The New York Times. The Times said half a dozen people with knowledge of the expulsions said US officials believe "at least one of the Chinese officials, who were with their wives, was an intelligence officer operating under diplomatic cover."

Three Chinese nationals imprisoned for clicking photos at Florida naval base

The American Civil Liberties Union&nbsp;and other civil rights groups are suing Donald Trump, William Barr and other federal officials over the&nbsp;assault on peaceful protesters near the White House on Monday, to allow the president to hold a photo op at a historic church.

<img alt="Trump" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fb60fd71-f913-4c03-8d09-ad833af061bd" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/142898-donaldt.jpg" /> 
US President Donald Trump holds a Bible while visiting St. John's Church Photograph:( AFP )

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/biden-rebukes-trumps-photo-op-in-front-of-riot-damaged-church-302527">Biden rebukes Trump's photo op in front of riot-damaged church</a>

According to&nbsp;a release from the ACLU of the District of Columbia, the lawsuit filed on behalf of Black Lives Matter DC and individual protesters accuses Trump and the other officials are accused of ''violating their constitutional rights and engaging in an unlawful conspiracy to violate those rights.''

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/archbishop-attacks-trumps-visit-to-a-shrine-amid-civil-unrest-in-us-302758">Archbishop attacks Trump's visit to a shrine amid civil unrest in US</a>

The Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law and the law firm of Arnold and&nbsp;Porter also filed the suit.

Protesters demonstrating over the&nbsp;killing of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis&nbsp;were gassed, shot with&nbsp;rubber bullets&nbsp;and forcefully cleared on Barr’s orders so Trump could walk to St John’s church, the so-called Church of the Presidents, and&nbsp;hold up a Bible in a photo op&nbsp;meant to reassure evangelical supporters.

The American Civil Liberties Union and other civil rights groups are suing Donald Trump, William Barr and other federal officials over the assault on peaceful protesters near the White House on Monday, to allow the president to hold a photo op at a historic church.

The American Civil Liberties Union and other civil rights groups are suing Donald Trump, William Barr and other federal officials over the assault on peaceful protesters near the White House on Monday, to allow the president to hold a photo op at a historic church. US President Donald Trump holds a Bible while visiting St. John's Church Photograph:( AFP ) Also read: Biden rebukes Trump's photo op in front of riot-damaged church According to a release from the ACLU of the District of Columbia, the lawsuit filed on behalf of Black Lives Matter DC and individual protesters accuses Trump and the other officials are accused of ''violating their constitutional rights and engaging in an unlawful conspiracy to violate those rights.'' Also read: Archbishop attacks Trump's visit to a shrine amid civil unrest in US The Washington Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights and Urban Affairs, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights Under Law and the law firm of Arnold and Porter also filed the suit. Protesters demonstrating over the killing of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis were gassed, shot with rubber bullets and forcefully cleared on Barr’s orders so Trump could walk to St John’s church, the so-called Church of the Presidents, and hold up a Bible in a photo op meant to reassure evangelical supporters.

Civil rights groups sue Trump, Barr over assault on peaceful protesters to click picture

Fiji announced it was coronavirus free Friday after the island nation's last known infected patient was given the all-clear, continuing the Pacific's remarkable record of success against the virus.

Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said Friday that the South Pacific island nation had just cleared the last of its 18 active patients.

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Fiji has just cleared the last of our active <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> patients. 
 
And even with our testing numbers climbing by the day, it's now been 45 days since we recorded our last case. With no deaths, our recovery rate is 100%. 
 
Answered prayers, hard work, and affirmation of science!
— Frank Bainimarama (@FijiPM) <a href="https://twitter.com/FijiPM/status/1268646239429525504?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The pacific nation with a population of 930,000 people reported its COVID-19 case in mid-March.

While fear of spread loomed large, the nation succeeded in eliminating the virus with strict isolation measures and border controls.&nbsp;

Fiji recorded its last case about 45 days back and is significantly improving&nbsp;testing day by day.&nbsp;

Initially seen as one of the most vulnerable places because of poor health infrastructure and high rates of health conditions, the pacific nation acted swiftly to fight against the pandemic.

The country was quick to shut down&nbsp;tourism trade, which largely&nbsp;contributes to its economy, in order to contain the contagion.

Fiji announced it was coronavirus free Friday after the island nation's last known infected patient was given the all-clear, continuing the Pacific's remarkable record of success against the virus.

Fiji announced it was coronavirus free Friday after the island nation's last known infected patient was given the all-clear, continuing the Pacific's remarkable record of success against the virus. Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama said Friday that the South Pacific island nation had just cleared the last of its 18 active patients. Fiji has just cleared the last of our active #COVID19 patients. And even with our testing numbers climbing by the day, it's now been 45 days since we recorded our last case. With no deaths, our recovery rate is 100%. Answered prayers, hard work, and affirmation of science! — Frank Bainimarama (@FijiPM) June 4, 2020 × The pacific nation with a population of 930,000 people reported its COVID-19 case in mid-March. While fear of spread loomed large, the nation succeeded in eliminating the virus with strict isolation measures and border controls. Fiji recorded its last case about 45 days back and is significantly improving testing day by day. Initially seen as one of the most vulnerable places because of poor health infrastructure and high rates of health conditions, the pacific nation acted swiftly to fight against the pandemic. The country was quick to shut down tourism trade, which largely contributes to its economy, in order to contain the contagion.

Pacific nation Fiji declares itself free from coronavirus

South Africa&nbsp;has reported a record jump in new&nbsp;cases, nearly 80 per cent&nbsp;higher than its previous daily record – as the the country gradually eases its lockdown. The surge came as&nbsp;Brazil&nbsp;overtook Italy to become the third worst affected nation for deaths, behind the US and the UK.

South Africa&nbsp;recorded 3,267 new Covid-19 cases on Thursday, the biggest jump since the pandemic began.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-african-court-declares-some-lockdown-regulations-unconstitutional-and-invalid-302779">South African court declares some lockdown regulations 'unconstitutional and invalid'</a>

The country is the worst hit in sub-Saharan Africa and has nearly a quarter of all cases on the continent, with 40,792 infections. With 848 deaths, it ranks only second to Egypt for fatalities (1,126).

Nearly two thirds of the country’s cases are in the Western Cape province, where Cape Town is the biggest city, and health services are under pressure.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/south-africa-dehorns-dozens-of-rhinos-to-prevent-lockdown-poaching-surge-303519">South Africa dehorns dozens of rhinos to prevent lockdown poaching surge</a>

The region is also a major tourist destination, and local authorities have implemented one of the most rigorous testing regimes in the country.

South Africa’s strict lockdown began on 27 March, sharply limiting freedom of movement and slowing an economy already in recession. Restrictions were eased to level 3 on Monday which opened up large parts of the economy and abolished curfews. Alcohol went back on sale under strict rules but tobacco sales remain banned.

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Summary of level 3 regulations <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Level3Regulations?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Level3Regulations</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Level3Lockdown?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Level3Lockdown</a> <a href="https://t.co/gmOjGCQmuZ">pic.twitter.com/gmOjGCQmuZ</a>
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&nbsp;

South Africa has reported a record jump in new cases, nearly 80 per cent higher than its previous daily record – as the the country gradually eases its lockdown.

South Africa has reported a record jump in new cases, nearly 80 per cent higher than its previous daily record – as the the country gradually eases its lockdown. The surge came as Brazil overtook Italy to become the third worst affected nation for deaths, behind the US and the UK. South Africa recorded 3,267 new Covid-19 cases on Thursday, the biggest jump since the pandemic began. Also read: South African court declares some lockdown regulations 'unconstitutional and invalid' The country is the worst hit in sub-Saharan Africa and has nearly a quarter of all cases on the continent, with 40,792 infections. With 848 deaths, it ranks only second to Egypt for fatalities (1,126). Nearly two thirds of the country’s cases are in the Western Cape province, where Cape Town is the biggest city, and health services are under pressure. Also read: South Africa dehorns dozens of rhinos to prevent lockdown poaching surge The region is also a major tourist destination, and local authorities have implemented one of the most rigorous testing regimes in the country. South Africa’s strict lockdown began on 27 March, sharply limiting freedom of movement and slowing an economy already in recession. Restrictions were eased to level 3 on Monday which opened up large parts of the economy and abolished curfews. Alcohol went back on sale under strict rules but tobacco sales remain banned. Summary of level 3 regulations #Level3Regulations #Level3Lockdown pic.twitter.com/gmOjGCQmuZ — GCIS Media Liaison (@GCISMedia) May 29, 2020 ×

South Africa records biggest surge in coronavirus cases since outbreak

President Tayyip&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks.

Fayez al Serraj, leader of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA), held lengthy talks with&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;in Ankara, as the allies seek to lock in battlefield gains, including recapturing Tripoli, ahead of the truce talks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/libya-talks-in-stalemate-as-russia-accuses-turkey-of-infiltrating-foreign-fighters-283096">Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters</a>

Turkey started backing the GNA in November after signing a military cooperation pact alongside a maritime demarcation deal, which gives Ankara oil exploration rights in the Mediterranean that Greece and others reject.

Turkish support in the conflict has pushed back Khalifa Haftar's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), backed by the United Arab Emirates, Russia and Egypt, which had been attacking the GNA in Tripoli since April 2019. On Thursday, the GNA said it had regained control of Tripoli.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/poor-relations-between-uae-and-turkey-have-further-complicated-conflicts-in-the-middle-east-300864">Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East</a>

The latest advance could hasten steps toward a potential truce, underlining Turkey's growing influence in the resource-rich region where&nbsp;Erdogan&nbsp;could seek lasting energy and military cooperation.

Serraj's visit to Turkey comes after weeks of gains by the GNA, driving Haftar from his foothold in the northwest. A senior Turkish official said the recent gains by the GNA were critical ahead of the truce talks, and Ankara has said the recent gains were an opportunity for political talks.

President Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks.

President Tayyip Erdogan vowed on Thursday (June 4) to increase Turkey's support for Libya's internationally recognised government, and added that the two sides would expand their cooperation in the eastern Mediterranean, following talks in Ankara ahead of a new round of potential ceasefire talks. Fayez al Serraj, leader of Libya's Government of National Accord (GNA), held lengthy talks with Erdogan in Ankara, as the allies seek to lock in battlefield gains, including recapturing Tripoli, ahead of the truce talks. Also read: Libya talks in stalemate as Russia accuses Turkey of infiltrating foreign fighters Turkey started backing the GNA in November after signing a military cooperation pact alongside a maritime demarcation deal, which gives Ankara oil exploration rights in the Mediterranean that Greece and others reject. Turkish support in the conflict has pushed back Khalifa Haftar's eastern-based Libyan National Army (LNA), backed by the United Arab Emirates, Russia and Egypt, which had been attacking the GNA in Tripoli since April 2019. On Thursday, the GNA said it had regained control of Tripoli. Also read: Poor relations between UAE and Turkey have further complicated conflicts in the Middle East The latest advance could hasten steps toward a potential truce, underlining Turkey's growing influence in the resource-rich region where Erdogan could seek lasting energy and military cooperation. Serraj's visit to Turkey comes after weeks of gains by the GNA, driving Haftar from his foothold in the northwest. A senior Turkish official said the recent gains by the GNA were critical ahead of the truce talks, and Ankara has said the recent gains were an opportunity for political talks.

Turkey to increase support for Libya's Serraj, says Erdogan

State-backed hackers from China and Iran have targeted staffers working on the US&nbsp;presidential campaign of Democratic candidate Joe Biden and US President Donald respectively according to&nbsp;a senior Google security official.

The announcement, made on Twitter by the head of Google's Threat Analysis Group, Shane Huntley, is the latest indication of the digital spying routinely aimed at top politicians of all stripes.

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Recently TAG saw China APT group targeting Biden campaign staff &amp; Iran APT targeting Trump campaign staff with phishing. No sign of compromise. We sent users our govt attack warning and we referred to fed law enforcement. <a href="https://t.co/ozlRL4SwhG">https://t.co/ozlRL4SwhG</a>
— Shane Huntley (@ShaneHuntley) <a href="https://twitter.com/ShaneHuntley/status/1268589219842109440?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Huntley said there was "no sign of compromise" of either campaign.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trumps-approval-rating-dips-currently-trails-behind-biden-polls-298359">Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls</a>

Iranian attempts to break into Trump campaign officials' emails have been documented before. Last year, Microsoft Corp announced that a group often nicknamed Charming Kitten had tried to break into email accounts belonging to an unnamed US&nbsp;presidential campaign that sources identified as Trump's.

Earlier this year, the threat intelligence company Area1 said that Russian hackers had targeted companies tied to a Ukrainian gas firm where Biden's son once served on the board.

Google declined to offer details beyond Huntley's tweets, but the unusually public attribution is a sign of how sensitive Americans have become to digital espionage efforts aimed at political campaigns.

State-backed hackers from China and Iran have targeted staffers working on the US presidential campaign of Democratic candidate Joe Biden and US President Donald respectively according to a senior Google security official.

State-backed hackers from China and Iran have targeted staffers working on the US presidential campaign of Democratic candidate Joe Biden and US President Donald respectively according to a senior Google security official. The announcement, made on Twitter by the head of Google's Threat Analysis Group, Shane Huntley, is the latest indication of the digital spying routinely aimed at top politicians of all stripes. Recently TAG saw China APT group targeting Biden campaign staff & Iran APT targeting Trump campaign staff with phishing. No sign of compromise. We sent users our govt attack warning and we referred to fed law enforcement. https://t.co/ozlRL4SwhG — Shane Huntley (@ShaneHuntley) June 4, 2020 × Huntley said there was "no sign of compromise" of either campaign. Also read: Donald Trump's approval rating dips, currently trails behind Biden: Polls Iranian attempts to break into Trump campaign officials' emails have been documented before. Last year, Microsoft Corp announced that a group often nicknamed Charming Kitten had tried to break into email accounts belonging to an unnamed US presidential campaign that sources identified as Trump's. Earlier this year, the threat intelligence company Area1 said that Russian hackers had targeted companies tied to a Ukrainian gas firm where Biden's son once served on the board. Google declined to offer details beyond Huntley's tweets, but the unusually public attribution is a sign of how sensitive Americans have become to digital espionage efforts aimed at political campaigns.

Biden and Trump's campaigns targeted by Chinese and Iranian hackers: Google

Dutch health officials have ordered the slaughter of around 10,000 mink to start Friday on farms where coronavirus outbreaks have been reported, possibly infecting at least two employees.

“Clearing the infected farms is in the interest of both human health and animal health,” Agriculture Minister Carola Schouten said in a letter to parliament, adding the cull would commence on Friday and farmers would be compensated.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mink-are-the-latest-animals-to-contract-coronavirus-296900">Mink are the latest animals to contract coronavirus</a>

The cull will prevent a “reservoir” of SARS-CoV-2 virus on farms, which could endanger public health, it said.

Each farm houses several thousand of the ferret-like animals, which are bred for their fur.

<img alt="Mink" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="a633da6d-3beb-4026-a5af-efefaf840a01" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/ym-minkfarm-260520.jpg" />

&nbsp;
A mink farm is seen during the coronavirus disease outbreak in De Mortel, Netherlands|REUTERS
“The Animal Welfare Commission has been informed and will see to it that the animals are treated in a responsible manner and killed,” Schouten said.

Health officials warned the "virus can continue to circulate on mink farms for a long time and therefore posed a risk to public and animal health," the ministers said in a letter to parliament.

Around 10,000 mink are to be culled in the clean-up on the fur farms, agriculture department spokeswoman Elise van den Bosch said.Coronavirus outbreaks have occurred on eight farms in the Netherlands, and Wednesday’s letter confirmed a ninth.

“The expectation is that further infections will be seen in the coming weeks,” Schouten said.

Last month her ministry reported two cases where mink were believed to have transmitted the disease to humans, in what are the only animal-to-human cases on record since the global outbreak began in China.

The outbreaks on the Dutch mink farms are all thought to have originated from their human handlers and then spread among the minks. The country’s National Institute for Health (RIVM) has said that the risk of animal-to-human and human-to-animal transmission remains “minimal.”

&nbsp;

Dutch health officials have ordered the slaughter of around 10,000 mink to start Friday on farms where coronavirus outbreaks have been reported, possibly infecting at least two employees.

Dutch health officials have ordered the slaughter of around 10,000 mink to start Friday on farms where coronavirus outbreaks have been reported, possibly infecting at least two employees. “Clearing the infected farms is in the interest of both human health and animal health,” Agriculture Minister Carola Schouten said in a letter to parliament, adding the cull would commence on Friday and farmers would be compensated. Also read: Mink are the latest animals to contract coronavirus The cull will prevent a “reservoir” of SARS-CoV-2 virus on farms, which could endanger public health, it said. Each farm houses several thousand of the ferret-like animals, which are bred for their fur. A mink farm is seen during the coronavirus disease outbreak in De Mortel, Netherlands|REUTERS “The Animal Welfare Commission has been informed and will see to it that the animals are treated in a responsible manner and killed,” Schouten said. Health officials warned the "virus can continue to circulate on mink farms for a long time and therefore posed a risk to public and animal health," the ministers said in a letter to parliament. Around 10,000 mink are to be culled in the clean-up on the fur farms, agriculture department spokeswoman Elise van den Bosch said.Coronavirus outbreaks have occurred on eight farms in the Netherlands, and Wednesday’s letter confirmed a ninth. “The expectation is that further infections will be seen in the coming weeks,” Schouten said. Last month her ministry reported two cases where mink were believed to have transmitted the disease to humans, in what are the only animal-to-human cases on record since the global outbreak began in China. The outbreaks on the Dutch mink farms are all thought to have originated from their human handlers and then spread among the minks. The country’s National Institute for Health (RIVM) has said that the risk of animal-to-human and human-to-animal transmission remains “minimal.”

Dutch to slaughter around 10,000 mink after coronavirus outbreak on farms

President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed the release from Iranian detention of US Navy veteran Michael White and said he'd be rejoining his family in the United States shortly.

White "is on a Swiss plane that just left Iranian Airspace. We expect him to be home with his family in America very soon," Trump wrote on Twitter.

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I am to happy announce that Navy Veteran, Michael White, who has been detained by Iran for 683 days, is on a Swiss plane that just left Iranian Airspace. We expect him to be home with his family in America very soon....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1268564689069527042?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 4, 2020</a></blockquote>
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A White House spokesman said Michael White's release may lead to an opening in the otherwise deeply bitter relationship between Iran and the United States.

White had been released from an Iranian prison in mid-March on medical furlough but had been held in Iran under Swiss custody.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-claims-that-he-went-to-bunker-for-inspection-amid-clashes-303369" hreflang="en">Donald Trump claims that he went to bunker for 'inspection' amid clashes</a>

Switzerland looks after US&nbsp;interests with Tehran because the United States and Iran lack diplomatic relations.

White's release is a rare bright spot in an otherwise deeply frayed relationship between the United States and Iran, which have grown more hostile toward each other since Trump took office in 2017.

Asked whether White's release could be an opening in terms of US-Iranian relations, White House spokesman Hogan Gidley told Fox News Channel, "Hopefully so. The president has built incredible relationships with leaders across this globe."

US-Iranian relations have been bitter since the Islamic Revolution toppled the US-backed Shah of Iran in 1979 and ushered in an era of theocratic rule.

Tensions flared after Trump pulled out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed US&nbsp;sanctions that have crippled the country's economy.

Tensions escalated after a January&nbsp;3 US&nbsp;drone strike in Iraq killed Qassem Soleimani, the powerful head of Iran's elite Quds Force.

Both the United States and Iran have called for the release of prisoners due to the novel coronavirus outbreak.

Iran is one of the worst-hit countries in the Middle East, while the United States has reported the highest number of deaths and infections in the world from the virus.

White's release comes two days after the United States deported Sirous Asgari, an Iranian professor imprisoned in the United States despite being acquitted on charges of stealing trade secrets. Iranian media reported his arrival on Wednesday.

Both the U.S. State Department and Iranian officials have repeatedly denied that Asgari was part of a swap with White, or anyone else and said his case was separate.

President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed the release from Iranian detention of US Navy veteran Michael White and said he'd be rejoining his family in the United States shortly.

President Donald Trump on Thursday confirmed the release from Iranian detention of US Navy veteran Michael White and said he'd be rejoining his family in the United States shortly. White "is on a Swiss plane that just left Iranian Airspace. We expect him to be home with his family in America very soon," Trump wrote on Twitter. I am to happy announce that Navy Veteran, Michael White, who has been detained by Iran for 683 days, is on a Swiss plane that just left Iranian Airspace. We expect him to be home with his family in America very soon.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) June 4, 2020 × A White House spokesman said Michael White's release may lead to an opening in the otherwise deeply bitter relationship between Iran and the United States. White had been released from an Iranian prison in mid-March on medical furlough but had been held in Iran under Swiss custody. Also read: Donald Trump claims that he went to bunker for 'inspection' amid clashes Switzerland looks after US interests with Tehran because the United States and Iran lack diplomatic relations. White's release is a rare bright spot in an otherwise deeply frayed relationship between the United States and Iran, which have grown more hostile toward each other since Trump took office in 2017. Asked whether White's release could be an opening in terms of US-Iranian relations, White House spokesman Hogan Gidley told Fox News Channel, "Hopefully so. The president has built incredible relationships with leaders across this globe." US-Iranian relations have been bitter since the Islamic Revolution toppled the US-backed Shah of Iran in 1979 and ushered in an era of theocratic rule. Tensions flared after Trump pulled out of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and reimposed US sanctions that have crippled the country's economy. Tensions escalated after a January 3 US drone strike in Iraq killed Qassem Soleimani, the powerful head of Iran's elite Quds Force. Both the United States and Iran have called for the release of prisoners due to the novel coronavirus outbreak. Iran is one of the worst-hit countries in the Middle East, while the United States has reported the highest number of deaths and infections in the world from the virus. White's release comes two days after the United States deported Sirous Asgari, an Iranian professor imprisoned in the United States despite being acquitted on charges of stealing trade secrets. Iranian media reported his arrival on Wednesday. Both the U.S. State Department and Iranian officials have repeatedly denied that Asgari was part of a swap with White, or anyone else and said his case was separate.

American detained in Iran since 2018 freed, to rejoin family in US 'very soon': Trump

The Red Cross&nbsp;on Thursday called on US authorities and those leading the demonstrations raging across the country to help ensure protesters can gather without fear of sparking fresh coronavirus outbreaks.

"It is about common sense," Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said&nbsp;in an interview.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/protests-over-george-floyds-death-expose-raw-race-relations-worldwide-302869">Protests over George Floyd's death expose raw race relations worldwide</a>

He lamented that television images of the protests showed many marching without wearing masks or other protective gear such as gloves, and pressed together is small spaces.

"This is a bad signal, of course. And of even more concern in a country that is having this bad impact with COVID-19," he said.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-london-to-new-zealand-people-join-in-on-black-lives-matter-protests-302343">From London to New Zealand, people join in on 'Black Lives Matter' protests</a>

Protesters have been thronging cities across the United States demanding an end to racism and police brutality ever since George Floyd, an African American man, died after being pinned down by police officers more than a week ago.

But in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Red Cross leaders are calling on officials and protest leaders to do more to ensure that the demonstrations can go ahead safely with regard to the COVID-19 virus.

The United States remains the country worst affected by the pandemic, counting more than 107,000 deaths, more than a quarter of the global total. More than 1.8 million people in the country have been infected.

The Red Cross on Thursday called on US authorities and those leading the demonstrations raging across the country to help ensure protesters can gather without fear of sparking fresh coronavirus outbreaks.

The Red Cross on Thursday called on US authorities and those leading the demonstrations raging across the country to help ensure protesters can gather without fear of sparking fresh coronavirus outbreaks. "It is about common sense," Francesco Rocca, President of the International Federation of the Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC) said in an interview. Also see: Protests over George Floyd's death expose raw race relations worldwide He lamented that television images of the protests showed many marching without wearing masks or other protective gear such as gloves, and pressed together is small spaces. "This is a bad signal, of course. And of even more concern in a country that is having this bad impact with COVID-19," he said. Also see: From London to New Zealand, people join in on 'Black Lives Matter' protests Protesters have been thronging cities across the United States demanding an end to racism and police brutality ever since George Floyd, an African American man, died after being pinned down by police officers more than a week ago. But in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, Red Cross leaders are calling on officials and protest leaders to do more to ensure that the demonstrations can go ahead safely with regard to the COVID-19 virus. The United States remains the country worst affected by the pandemic, counting more than 107,000 deaths, more than a quarter of the global total. More than 1.8 million people in the country have been infected.

'Boost virus safety', says Red Cross to authorities and protest leaders in US

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