Hundreds are dancing away the lockdown blues in Shanghai after the city's nighclubs were allowed to re-open in mid-March.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
The parties have finally regained their groove, after two months. 
&nbsp; 
People flocking&nbsp;to the clubs are being greeting by new party rules including&nbsp;disposable cups, disinfectants and&nbsp;masks.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/post-pandemic-nightclub-experience-in-china-gives-a-glimpse-of-the-future-300883" hreflang="en">Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future</a> 
&nbsp; 
Clubs across Shanghai are not willing to compromise on safety and have taken elaborate measures to avoid infection.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="http://13.235.153.162/videos/gravitas-should-you-head-to-a-post-lockdown-party-301035/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Photo booths or props counters have been replaced by sanitizer dispensers and temperature checks are mandatory for all guests.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
They also require to fill a lengthy form mentioning all personal details. 
&nbsp; 
The staff is has also been issued guidelines to be followed. Bouncers, bartenders and waiters need to wear masks and gloves all the time. While, door handles and washrooms need to be disinfected every hour.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Nightclubs have been a part of the recent headlines because of being breeding grounds for the deadly virus. 
&nbsp; 
In South Korea's capital Seoul, several clubs were linked to a cluster outbeak earlier in May.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
But approximately 900 kilometers away, party-goers in Shanghai are confident that partying is not unsafe. 
&nbsp; 
Compromising&nbsp;on social distancing measures, could become turn out be&nbsp;very expensive.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
Half-way across the world, hundreds of the ozarks courted trouble in Missouri, US&nbsp;as they jumped into a summer pool party as they social distancing out of the pool. 
&nbsp; 
The Memorial day weekend was celebrated by breaching all safety protocols.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/americans-spend-memorial-day-weekend-at-beaches-and-parks-amid-pandemic-rage-300896" hreflang="en">Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage</a> 
&nbsp; 
However, the good news, is that rules aren't being broken everywhere. 
&nbsp;&nbsp; 
A new form of beach life has emerged in Larnaca, Cyprus in which there are sunbeds, parasols and water-sports but no compromise on social distancing. 
&nbsp; 
Sunbathers displayed how safety and party can very well go hand-in-hand as they returned to the beach this weekend.

Hundreds are dancing away the lockdown blues in Shanghai after the city's nighclubs were allowed to re-open in mid-March. The parties have finally regained their groove, after two months.

Hundreds are dancing away the lockdown blues in Shanghai after the city's nighclubs were allowed to re-open in mid-March. The parties have finally regained their groove, after two months. People flocking to the clubs are being greeting by new party rules including disposable cups, disinfectants and masks. Also see: Post-pandemic nightclub experience in China gives a glimpse of the future Clubs across Shanghai are not willing to compromise on safety and have taken elaborate measures to avoid infection. × Photo booths or props counters have been replaced by sanitizer dispensers and temperature checks are mandatory for all guests. They also require to fill a lengthy form mentioning all personal details. The staff is has also been issued guidelines to be followed. Bouncers, bartenders and waiters need to wear masks and gloves all the time. While, door handles and washrooms need to be disinfected every hour. Nightclubs have been a part of the recent headlines because of being breeding grounds for the deadly virus. In South Korea's capital Seoul, several clubs were linked to a cluster outbeak earlier in May. But approximately 900 kilometers away, party-goers in Shanghai are confident that partying is not unsafe. Compromising on social distancing measures, could become turn out be very expensive. Half-way across the world, hundreds of the ozarks courted trouble in Missouri, US as they jumped into a summer pool party as they social distancing out of the pool. The Memorial day weekend was celebrated by breaching all safety protocols. Also see: Americans spend Memorial Day weekend at beaches and parks amid pandemic rage However, the good news, is that rules aren't being broken everywhere. A new form of beach life has emerged in Larnaca, Cyprus in which there are sunbeds, parasols and water-sports but no compromise on social distancing. Sunbathers displayed how safety and party can very well go hand-in-hand as they returned to the beach this weekend.

Much needed break or threat to life? Significance of following social distancing norms

Greece fears a fresh standoff on its border with&nbsp;Turkey&nbsp;after the Turkish foreign minister suggested migrants and refugees would shortly return to the frontier as the two countries emerge from coronavirus lockdowns.

Mevlut Cavusoglu, foreign affairs minister of Turkey, ''due to the pandemic, the movement of migrants has slowed down. But they will definitely want to leave after the outbreak is over.''

The statement set off alarm bells in Athens, where analysts are increasingly voicing fears of an iteration of&nbsp;the crisis that erupted earlier this year&nbsp;when the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, declared the doors to Europe were open and migrants free to cross into Greece.

After a hiatus of almost three months, Greek authorities reported several boats of men, women and children landing on the shores of Lesbos last week.

However,&nbsp;Cavusoglu denied&nbsp;said allegations&nbsp;were "utterly false".

Some 37,000 asylum seekers remain on the outposts in vastly overcrowded conditions that have been deplored by human rights groups.

As a precautionary measure against coronavirus, Turkey sealed its north-western land frontier, demarcated by the Evros River in mid-March, but only after&nbsp;weeks of chaos and high drama&nbsp;in which thousands attempted to cross the border amid a hail of rubber bullets and teargas fired by elite forces on either side.

Previously,&nbsp;Greece&nbsp;on Sunday dismissed reports that Turkish soldiers had occupied a strip of Greek territory in the Evros border region, where Athens is expanding a fence to keep migrants out.

Greece fears a fresh standoff on its border with Turkey after the Turkish foreign minister suggested migrants and refugees would shortly return to the frontier as the two countries emerge from coronavirus lockdowns.

Greece fears a fresh standoff on its border with Turkey after the Turkish foreign minister suggested migrants and refugees would shortly return to the frontier as the two countries emerge from coronavirus lockdowns. Mevlut Cavusoglu, foreign affairs minister of Turkey, ''due to the pandemic, the movement of migrants has slowed down. But they will definitely want to leave after the outbreak is over.'' The statement set off alarm bells in Athens, where analysts are increasingly voicing fears of an iteration of the crisis that erupted earlier this year when the Turkish president, Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, declared the doors to Europe were open and migrants free to cross into Greece. After a hiatus of almost three months, Greek authorities reported several boats of men, women and children landing on the shores of Lesbos last week. However, Cavusoglu denied said allegations were "utterly false". Some 37,000 asylum seekers remain on the outposts in vastly overcrowded conditions that have been deplored by human rights groups. As a precautionary measure against coronavirus, Turkey sealed its north-western land frontier, demarcated by the Evros River in mid-March, but only after weeks of chaos and high drama in which thousands attempted to cross the border amid a hail of rubber bullets and teargas fired by elite forces on either side. Previously, Greece on Sunday dismissed reports that Turkish soldiers had occupied a strip of Greek territory in the Evros border region, where Athens is expanding a fence to keep migrants out.

Greece fears border standoff with Turkey over migrants' return

Smoke from the massive bushfires that hit Australia in the 2019-20 summer was linked to more than 445 deaths&nbsp;and more than 4,000 hospitalisations over several months, as per a government inquiry.

More than 4,000 people were admitted to hospital due to the smoke, Associate Professor Fay Johnston from the University of Tasmania told the Royal Commission.

The fires burned for weeks, killed more than 30 people and caused air pollution which can be harmful to health.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pandemic-bites-into-australia-bushfire-recovery-victims-try-rebuilding-life-again-301044/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The Royal Commission, tasked with finding ways to improve how&nbsp;Australia&nbsp;deals with natural disasters, heard from an environmental health specialist that the overall toll was estimated to be far higher when accounting for impacts from the bushfire smoke.

Fay Johnston, associate professor at the University of Tasmania's Menzies Institute for Medical Research, said its modelling found there were 445 deaths attributable to the fires as well as 3,340 hospital admissions and 1,373 emergency room visits.

"Our estimates for the last season were at Aus$2 billion&nbsp;in health costs associated with premature loss of life and admissions to hospitals," she added.

Johnston said that was "about 10 times higher" than in preceding years, despite not including costs associated with ambulance callouts, lost productivity or some diseases where impacts would be difficult to model, such as diabetes.

The fires, fuelled by record-breaking temperatures and months of severe drought, devastated communities and destroyed more than 11 million hectares&nbsp;of bush, forest and parks across Australia.

Residents of Sydney, Australia's largest city, endured smoke for weeks and the air quality exceeded "hazardous" levels on several occasions. Other major cities, including the capital Canberra and Adelaide, were also shrouded by smoke.

&nbsp;

Smoke from the massive bushfires that hit Australia in the 2019-20 summer was linked to more than 445 deaths and more than 4,000 hospitalisations over several months, as per a government inquiry.

Smoke from the massive bushfires that hit Australia in the 2019-20 summer was linked to more than 445 deaths and more than 4,000 hospitalisations over several months, as per a government inquiry. More than 4,000 people were admitted to hospital due to the smoke, Associate Professor Fay Johnston from the University of Tasmania told the Royal Commission. The fires burned for weeks, killed more than 30 people and caused air pollution which can be harmful to health. The Royal Commission, tasked with finding ways to improve how Australia deals with natural disasters, heard from an environmental health specialist that the overall toll was estimated to be far higher when accounting for impacts from the bushfire smoke. Fay Johnston, associate professor at the University of Tasmania's Menzies Institute for Medical Research, said its modelling found there were 445 deaths attributable to the fires as well as 3,340 hospital admissions and 1,373 emergency room visits. "Our estimates for the last season were at Aus$2 billion in health costs associated with premature loss of life and admissions to hospitals," she added. Johnston said that was "about 10 times higher" than in preceding years, despite not including costs associated with ambulance callouts, lost productivity or some diseases where impacts would be difficult to model, such as diabetes. The fires, fuelled by record-breaking temperatures and months of severe drought, devastated communities and destroyed more than 11 million hectares of bush, forest and parks across Australia. Residents of Sydney, Australia's largest city, endured smoke for weeks and the air quality exceeded "hazardous" levels on several occasions. Other major cities, including the capital Canberra and Adelaide, were also shrouded by smoke.

Smoke from Australia bushfires linked to hundreds of deaths

Iran further eased restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus Tuesday by allowing restaurants to accept customers, as it announced another 57 deaths from the virus.

Since the first cases of COVID-19 appeared on its soil in mid-February, the Islamic republic has sought to halt the spread of the virus without imposing lockdowns.

A deputy health minister signalled the easing of restrictions on eateries.

"Restaurants which before this decree were only allowed to distribute food will be allowed to accept customers from today," Mohsen Farhadi told state television.

Farhadi called on restaurants to respect health protocols to ensure distancing of two metres, a measure he said would reduce client numbers by 50 percent.

Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour reported 57 additional COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 7,508.

Jahanpour said 1,787 new cases of infection over the same period brought the Islamic republic's caseload to 139,511.

"We are seeing a stable process in the majority of provinces," Jahanpour said, adding that the southwestern province of Khuzestan was still classified "red", although the number of infected cases was declining.

Red is the highest level on the country's colour-coded scale of risk in relation to its coronavirus outbreak -- the deadliest in the Middle East.

Experts both at home and abroad have voiced&nbsp;scepticism about Iran's official figures, saying the real toll could be much higher.

Iran further eased restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus Tuesday by allowing restaurants to accept customers, as it announced another 57 deaths from the virus.

Iran further eased restrictions aimed at curbing the spread of the novel coronavirus Tuesday by allowing restaurants to accept customers, as it announced another 57 deaths from the virus. Since the first cases of COVID-19 appeared on its soil in mid-February, the Islamic republic has sought to halt the spread of the virus without imposing lockdowns. A deputy health minister signalled the easing of restrictions on eateries. "Restaurants which before this decree were only allowed to distribute food will be allowed to accept customers from today," Mohsen Farhadi told state television. Farhadi called on restaurants to respect health protocols to ensure distancing of two metres, a measure he said would reduce client numbers by 50 percent. Health ministry spokesman Kianoush Jahanpour reported 57 additional COVID-19 deaths in the past 24 hours, bringing the total number of fatalities in the country to 7,508. Jahanpour said 1,787 new cases of infection over the same period brought the Islamic republic's caseload to 139,511. "We are seeing a stable process in the majority of provinces," Jahanpour said, adding that the southwestern province of Khuzestan was still classified "red", although the number of infected cases was declining. Red is the highest level on the country's colour-coded scale of risk in relation to its coronavirus outbreak -- the deadliest in the Middle East. Experts both at home and abroad have voiced scepticism about Iran's official figures, saying the real toll could be much higher.

Iran eases restaurant curbs as virus claims 57 more lives

Saudi Arabia will begin easing restrictions on movement and travel this week, more than two months after stringent measures were introduced to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Restrictions will be lifted in three phases, culminating in the curfew completely ending, with the exception of the holy city of Mecca,&nbsp;from June 21, the state news agency reported in a statement early on Tuesday.

The Hajj and Umrah pilgrimmages, which attract millions of travelers from around the world, will remain suspended until further notice.

Saudi Arabia, which has reported the highest number of coronavirus cases in the Gulf, imposed a full nationwide curfew during Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim holiday that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

The kingdom has so far recorded 74,795 cases of COVID-19 with 399 deaths. more than 2,000 cases are still being reported daily.

The first phase, starting on Thursday, will see the 24-hour curfew reduced to between 3 pm-6 am&nbsp;countrywide.

"Starting from Thursday, the kingdom will enter a new phase (in dealing with the pandemic) and will gradually return to normal based on the rules of social distancing," Health Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah said on Monday.

Officials said late Monday that retail stores, gyms, cinemas and attractions like the dolphinarium will be allowed to reopen under social distancing and disinfection rules.

Kuwait, which has reported some 22,000 cases and 165 deaths, also said that it would end its total curfew this weekend, with reduced measures to be announced later.

Free movement between regions and some retail and wholesale activities, including malls, will be allowed to resume.

Saudi Arabia will begin easing restrictions on movement and travel this week, more than two months after stringent measures were introduced to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Saudi Arabia will begin easing restrictions on movement and travel this week, more than two months after stringent measures were introduced to help curb the spread of the novel coronavirus. Restrictions will be lifted in three phases, culminating in the curfew completely ending, with the exception of the holy city of Mecca, from June 21, the state news agency reported in a statement early on Tuesday. The Hajj and Umrah pilgrimmages, which attract millions of travelers from around the world, will remain suspended until further notice. Saudi Arabia, which has reported the highest number of coronavirus cases in the Gulf, imposed a full nationwide curfew during Eid al-Fitr, the Muslim holiday that marks the end of the fasting month of Ramadan. The kingdom has so far recorded 74,795 cases of COVID-19 with 399 deaths. more than 2,000 cases are still being reported daily. The first phase, starting on Thursday, will see the 24-hour curfew reduced to between 3 pm-6 am countrywide. "Starting from Thursday, the kingdom will enter a new phase (in dealing with the pandemic) and will gradually return to normal based on the rules of social distancing," Health Minister Tawfiq Al-Rabiah said on Monday. Officials said late Monday that retail stores, gyms, cinemas and attractions like the dolphinarium will be allowed to reopen under social distancing and disinfection rules. Kuwait, which has reported some 22,000 cases and 165 deaths, also said that it would end its total curfew this weekend, with reduced measures to be announced later. Free movement between regions and some retail and wholesale activities, including malls, will be allowed to resume.

Saudi Arabia to end virus curfew on June 21, except in Mecca

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere.

The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/people-flock-to-beaches-as-israel-west-bank-bake-in-heatwave-299517/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

This year is expected to be "another record-breaking heat season in the northern hemisphere", WMO spokeswoman Clare Nullis Kapp told a virtual briefing in Geneva.

"We're currently experiencing one of the hottest years on record.

"COVID-19 amplifies the health risks of hot weather for many people, and it complicates the task of managing it."

The United Nations agency teamed up Tuesday with non-governmental organisations to call for stronger preparations to keep people safe in hot weather while keeping a lid on the pandemic.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/greeks-return-to-beaches-in-heatwave-299223/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The information series, which covers topics such as ventilation, vulnerable populations and personal protection equipment, is being issued "to alert decision-makers to try to help them manage the duel challenge of heat and COVID," said Nullis Kapp.

India is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius&nbsp;in the city of Churu in the northwestern Rajasthan state.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/heatwave-imd-issues-red-alert-for-several-parts-of-north-india-300746">Heatwave: IMD issues 'red alert' for several parts of North India</a>

"India is experiencing a heatwave, and this is at the same time as India is relaxing the lockdown measures," said Nullis Kapp.

"Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense because of climate change. This is putting an increasing stress on human health and human health systems," she added.

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere. The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus.

The UN's weather agency warned Tuesday that COVID-19 would amplify the risks of what was expected to be a record-breaking hot summer in the northern hemisphere. The World Meteorological Organization urged governments to make plans to keep people safe during heatwaves without spreading the novel coronavirus. This year is expected to be "another record-breaking heat season in the northern hemisphere", WMO spokeswoman Clare Nullis Kapp told a virtual briefing in Geneva. "We're currently experiencing one of the hottest years on record. "COVID-19 amplifies the health risks of hot weather for many people, and it complicates the task of managing it." The United Nations agency teamed up Tuesday with non-governmental organisations to call for stronger preparations to keep people safe in hot weather while keeping a lid on the pandemic. The information series, which covers topics such as ventilation, vulnerable populations and personal protection equipment, is being issued "to alert decision-makers to try to help them manage the duel challenge of heat and COVID," said Nullis Kapp. India is currently experiencing a widespread heatwave, with temperatures reaching 47.5 degrees Celsius in the city of Churu in the northwestern Rajasthan state. Also read: Heatwave: IMD issues 'red alert' for several parts of North India "India is experiencing a heatwave, and this is at the same time as India is relaxing the lockdown measures," said Nullis Kapp. "Heatwaves are becoming more frequent and more intense because of climate change. This is putting an increasing stress on human health and human health systems," she added.

Coronavirus pandemic heightening heatwave health risks: UN

A Scottish minister&nbsp;Douglas Ross has&nbsp;quit in protest on Tuesday over the controversy surrounding top aide Dominic Cummings' cross-country trip during the coronavirus lockdown.

"I have constituents who didn't get to say goodbye to loved ones; families who could not mourn together; people who didn't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the government," he said in a Twitter statement announcing his departure.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
I haven't commented publicly on the situation with Dominic Cummings as I have waited to hear the full details. I welcome the statement to clarify matters, but there remains aspects of the explanation which I have trouble with. As a result I have resigned as a government Minister. <a href="https://t.co/6yXLyMzItJ">pic.twitter.com/6yXLyMzItJ</a>
— Douglas Ross MP (@Douglas4Moray) <a href="https://twitter.com/Douglas4Moray/status/1265196839231533057?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2020</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

"I cannot in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior advisor to the government was right."

He added that Cummings' interpretation of government rules was "not shared by the vast majority of people".

The resignation came after a cabinet heavyweight defended Cummings and said the controversial aide did not break the law.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnsons-top-aide-cummings-to-face-police-investigation-as-pressure-mounts-300948">Boris Johnson's top aide Cummings to face police investigation as pressure mounts</a>

It&nbsp;will pile more pressure on Cummings, who held an extraordinary press conference Monday to justify driving his wife and young son on a 264-mile trip from London to Durham in the northeast of England during the height of the coronavirus crisis.

Despite calls for him to resign, Cummings has so far resisted and instead defended his actions. He told reporters he had acted "reasonably and legally".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/uks-pm-top-aide-dominic-cummings-says-he-wont-resign-301025/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Cummings' actions "plausible".

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/dominic-cummings-broke-lockdown-rules-defended-by-boris-johnson-300672/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Meanwhile, the number of deaths involving COVID-19 in the UK has topped 47,000, according to the latest available data.

&nbsp;

A Scottish minister Douglas Ross has quit in protest on Tuesday over the controversy surrounding top aide Dominic Cummings' cross-country trip during the coronavirus lockdown.

A Scottish minister Douglas Ross has quit in protest on Tuesday over the controversy surrounding top aide Dominic Cummings' cross-country trip during the coronavirus lockdown. "I have constituents who didn't get to say goodbye to loved ones; families who could not mourn together; people who didn't visit sick relatives because they followed the guidance of the government," he said in a Twitter statement announcing his departure. I haven't commented publicly on the situation with Dominic Cummings as I have waited to hear the full details. I welcome the statement to clarify matters, but there remains aspects of the explanation which I have trouble with. As a result I have resigned as a government Minister. pic.twitter.com/6yXLyMzItJ — Douglas Ross MP (@Douglas4Moray) May 26, 2020 × "I cannot in good faith tell them they were all wrong and one senior advisor to the government was right." He added that Cummings' interpretation of government rules was "not shared by the vast majority of people". The resignation came after a cabinet heavyweight defended Cummings and said the controversial aide did not break the law. Also read: Boris Johnson's top aide Cummings to face police investigation as pressure mounts It will pile more pressure on Cummings, who held an extraordinary press conference Monday to justify driving his wife and young son on a 264-mile trip from London to Durham in the northeast of England during the height of the coronavirus crisis. Despite calls for him to resign, Cummings has so far resisted and instead defended his actions. He told reporters he had acted "reasonably and legally". British Prime Minister Boris Johnson called Cummings' actions "plausible". Meanwhile, the number of deaths involving COVID-19 in the UK has topped 47,000, according to the latest available data.

Minister resigns in UK over Dominic Cummings' lockdown trip

Israeli government has limited the&nbsp;security services' involvement of the involvement of the Shin Bet security service in locating coronavirus carriers using cell phones, saying from now on the measure would only be used when epidemiological investigations prove insufficient.

Circumventing parliament in March, as the coronavirus spread, the cabinet approved emergency regulations that enabled the use of the technology, usually deployed for anti-terrorism.&nbsp;

Government watchdog groups had&nbsp;challenged the practice in court, arguing the use of mass surveillance to track Israel's population is a gross violation of civil and privacy rights.

Citing waning contagion rates in Israel, the cabinet amended regulations so that the phone tracking is warranted “in specific and special cases only, where location … cannot be completed with epidemiological investigation using other methods”.

But, a cabinet statement said, the reduced scope of Shin Bet involvement could be reviewed if a coronavirus surge is feared.

Israel – with a population 9 million – has reported 16,712 coronavirus cases and 279 deaths. Schools and businesses have been reopening amid cautious optimism about health policies.

A parliamentary oversight panel and the cabinet have been conferring on legislation that would regulate the Shin Bet involvement.

On Sunday, the cabinet approved a plan presented by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Israel Katz, which seeks to inject an additional $4 billion&nbsp;into the economy, bringing the state’s bailout package to a total of $28 billion.

Israeli government has limited the security services' involvement of the involvement of the Shin Bet security service in locating coronavirus carriers using cell phones, saying from now on the measure would only be used when epidemiological investigations prove insufficient.

Israeli government has limited the security services' involvement of the involvement of the Shin Bet security service in locating coronavirus carriers using cell phones, saying from now on the measure would only be used when epidemiological investigations prove insufficient. Circumventing parliament in March, as the coronavirus spread, the cabinet approved emergency regulations that enabled the use of the technology, usually deployed for anti-terrorism. Government watchdog groups had challenged the practice in court, arguing the use of mass surveillance to track Israel's population is a gross violation of civil and privacy rights. Citing waning contagion rates in Israel, the cabinet amended regulations so that the phone tracking is warranted “in specific and special cases only, where location … cannot be completed with epidemiological investigation using other methods”. But, a cabinet statement said, the reduced scope of Shin Bet involvement could be reviewed if a coronavirus surge is feared. Israel – with a population 9 million – has reported 16,712 coronavirus cases and 279 deaths. Schools and businesses have been reopening amid cautious optimism about health policies. A parliamentary oversight panel and the cabinet have been conferring on legislation that would regulate the Shin Bet involvement. On Sunday, the cabinet approved a plan presented by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Finance Minister Israel Katz, which seeks to inject an additional $4 billion into the economy, bringing the state’s bailout package to a total of $28 billion.

Israel limits coronavirus phone tracking to 'special cases' after privacy concerns

''Disaster'' is looming&nbsp;for millions of children as the coronavirus pandemic will&nbsp;making them more vulnerable to forced labour and underage marriage, a rights group has said as WHO warned&nbsp;of second peak.

According to Dutch NGO KidsRights&nbsp;''this crisis turns back the clock on years of progress made on the wellbeing of children.&nbsp;Therefore, a strong focus for children’s rights is needed more than ever.''

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-could-be-tied-to-a-rare-but-serious-illness-in-children-295199">Coronavirus could be tied to a rare but serious illness in children</a>

Millions of children would fall into extreme poverty because of the outbreak, which has left governments short of money for health and education for the young, it added.

The annual KidsRights rankings used UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/coronavirus-outbreak-how-to-keep-children-safe-expert-answers-all-your-questions-287557">Coronavirus outbreak: How to keep children safe? Expert answers all your questions</a>

This year's survey, which does not take into account the pandemic, put&nbsp;Iceland,&nbsp;Switzerland&nbsp;and&nbsp;Finland&nbsp;top, with&nbsp;Chad,&nbsp;Afghanistan&nbsp;and&nbsp;Sierra Leone&nbsp;the worst-performing countries.

The suspension of vaccination campaigns for children also increased the risk of infant mortality, while hundreds of millions of children who normally relied on school meals were being left with no reliable source of daily nutrition.

The NGO’s warning came as the WHO emergencies head, Mike Ryan, spoke of a potential second wave of infections at any time, especially if measures to halt the first wave were lifted too soon.

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

''Disaster'' is looming for millions of children as the coronavirus pandemic will making them more vulnerable to forced labour and underage marriage, a rights group has said as WHO warned of second peak.

''Disaster'' is looming for millions of children as the coronavirus pandemic will making them more vulnerable to forced labour and underage marriage, a rights group has said as WHO warned of second peak. According to Dutch NGO KidsRights ''this crisis turns back the clock on years of progress made on the wellbeing of children. Therefore, a strong focus for children’s rights is needed more than ever.'' Also read: Coronavirus could be tied to a rare but serious illness in children Millions of children would fall into extreme poverty because of the outbreak, which has left governments short of money for health and education for the young, it added. The annual KidsRights rankings used UN data to measure how countries measure up to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child. Also read: Coronavirus outbreak: How to keep children safe? Expert answers all your questions This year's survey, which does not take into account the pandemic, put Iceland, Switzerland and Finland top, with Chad, Afghanistan and Sierra Leone the worst-performing countries. The suspension of vaccination campaigns for children also increased the risk of infant mortality, while hundreds of millions of children who normally relied on school meals were being left with no reliable source of daily nutrition. The NGO’s warning came as the WHO emergencies head, Mike Ryan, spoke of a potential second wave of infections at any time, especially if measures to halt the first wave were lifted too soon.

COVID-19 to have 'disastrous' impact on millions of children: Report

China’s military is ready and able to ''safeguard''&nbsp;Chinese sovereignty in Hong Kong, the commander of the city-based garrison has said.

Chen Daoxiang, the People’s Liberation Army commander in Hong Kong, was speaking days after China announced plans to&nbsp;introduce a draconian new national security law&nbsp;which threatens many of the semi-autonomous city's civil liberties and political freedoms.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/thousands-take-to-streets-in-hong-kong-to-oppose-chinas-controversial-law-300786">Thousands take to streets in Hong Kong to oppose China's controversial law</a>

"Garrison officers and soldiers are determined, confident, and capable of safeguarding national sovereignty and development interests and the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong," Chen said Tuesday, adding that the Hong Kong Garrison viewed the national security law as "conducive to deter separatist forces and external intervention."

The warning came as protesters prepared for further demonstrations on Wednesday when the legislature starts debate on a controversial bill to criminalise ridicule of the Chinese national anthem.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/npcs-second-plenary-session-in-china-what-can-we-expect-300997">NPC's second plenary session in China: What can we expect?</a>

Despite&nbsp;international condemnation,&nbsp;protests on Sunday&nbsp;and further protests planned for this week,&nbsp;Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have refused to back down&nbsp;on Friday’s declaration by China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) to impose national security laws, bypassing Hong Kong’s legislature.

Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, maintained full support for the move, saying the&nbsp;Hong Kong&nbsp;government had been unable to pass the laws itself for 23 years, and was unlikely to in the near future.

At her weekly press conference on Tuesday, Lam defended the legality of NPC promulgating the law as ''sound and robust''.

The proposed national security law, which also permits Chinese security services to operate in Hong Kong for the first time -- has led to fears among many in the city that members of the PLA could be deployed onto the streets should violent protests resume.

In mainland China, sweeping national security laws have been used to target human rights activists, lawyers, journalists and pro-democracy campaigners.

China’s military is ready and able to ''safeguard'' Chinese sovereignty in Hong Kong, the commander of the city-based garrison has said. Chen Daoxiang, the People’s Liberation Army commander in Hong Kong, was speaking days after China announced plans to introduce a draconian new national security law which threatens many of the semi-autonomous city's civil liberties and political freedoms.

China’s military is ready and able to ''safeguard'' Chinese sovereignty in Hong Kong, the commander of the city-based garrison has said. Chen Daoxiang, the People’s Liberation Army commander in Hong Kong, was speaking days after China announced plans to introduce a draconian new national security law which threatens many of the semi-autonomous city's civil liberties and political freedoms. Also see: Thousands take to streets in Hong Kong to oppose China's controversial law "Garrison officers and soldiers are determined, confident, and capable of safeguarding national sovereignty and development interests and the long-term prosperity and stability of Hong Kong," Chen said Tuesday, adding that the Hong Kong Garrison viewed the national security law as "conducive to deter separatist forces and external intervention." The warning came as protesters prepared for further demonstrations on Wednesday when the legislature starts debate on a controversial bill to criminalise ridicule of the Chinese national anthem. Also read: NPC's second plenary session in China: What can we expect? Despite international condemnation, protests on Sunday and further protests planned for this week, Beijing and Hong Kong authorities have refused to back down on Friday’s declaration by China’s National People’s Congress (NPC) to impose national security laws, bypassing Hong Kong’s legislature. Hong Kong’s chief executive, Carrie Lam, maintained full support for the move, saying the Hong Kong government had been unable to pass the laws itself for 23 years, and was unlikely to in the near future. At her weekly press conference on Tuesday, Lam defended the legality of NPC promulgating the law as ''sound and robust''. The proposed national security law, which also permits Chinese security services to operate in Hong Kong for the first time -- has led to fears among many in the city that members of the PLA could be deployed onto the streets should violent protests resume. In mainland China, sweeping national security laws have been used to target human rights activists, lawyers, journalists and pro-democracy campaigners.

China's military vows to uphold 'national sovereignty' as Hong Kong protests grow

Countries where coronavirus infections are declining could still face an "immediate second peak" if they let up too soon on measures to halt the outbreak, the World Health Organization said on Monday.

According to&nbsp;WHO emergencies head&nbsp;Mike Ryan, ''when we speak about a second wave classically what we often means is there will be a first wave of the disease by itself, and then it recurs months later. But we need to be cognizant of the fact that the disease can jump up at any time.''

Ryan said&nbsp;epidemics often come in waves, which means that outbreaks could come back later this year in places where the first wave has subsided. There was also a chance that infection rates could rise again more quickly if measures to halt the first wave were lifted too soon.

"When we speak about a second wave classically what we often mean is there will be a first wave of the disease by itself, and then it recurs months later. And that may be a reality for many countries in a number of months' time," he&nbsp;added.

He added that countries should not assume that “just because the disease is on the way down now it is going to keep going down,” and said that the US and European countries should continue to implement tracking and testing measures.

In addition to the threat of a second wave hitting countries that have loosened lockdowns, some countries have not yet had a first peak.

He said countries in Europe and North America should "continue to put in place the public health and social measures, the surveillance measures, the testing measures and a comprehensive strategy to ensure that we continue on a downwards trajectory and we don't have an immediate second peak."

Many European countries and US&nbsp;states have taken steps in recent weeks to lift lockdown measures that curbed the spread of the disease but caused severe harm to economies.

The number of Covid-19 cases worldwide was nearing the 5.5 million mark on Tuesday, while the deaths have increased to more than 346,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

Countries where coronavirus infections are declining could still face an "immediate second peak" if they let up too soon on measures to halt the outbreak, the World Health Organization said on Monday.

Countries where coronavirus infections are declining could still face an "immediate second peak" if they let up too soon on measures to halt the outbreak, the World Health Organization said on Monday. According to WHO emergencies head Mike Ryan, ''when we speak about a second wave classically what we often means is there will be a first wave of the disease by itself, and then it recurs months later. But we need to be cognizant of the fact that the disease can jump up at any time.'' Ryan said epidemics often come in waves, which means that outbreaks could come back later this year in places where the first wave has subsided. There was also a chance that infection rates could rise again more quickly if measures to halt the first wave were lifted too soon. "When we speak about a second wave classically what we often mean is there will be a first wave of the disease by itself, and then it recurs months later. And that may be a reality for many countries in a number of months' time," he added. He added that countries should not assume that “just because the disease is on the way down now it is going to keep going down,” and said that the US and European countries should continue to implement tracking and testing measures. In addition to the threat of a second wave hitting countries that have loosened lockdowns, some countries have not yet had a first peak. He said countries in Europe and North America should "continue to put in place the public health and social measures, the surveillance measures, the testing measures and a comprehensive strategy to ensure that we continue on a downwards trajectory and we don't have an immediate second peak." Many European countries and US states have taken steps in recent weeks to lift lockdown measures that curbed the spread of the disease but caused severe harm to economies. The number of Covid-19 cases worldwide was nearing the 5.5 million mark on Tuesday, while the deaths have increased to more than 346,000, according to the Johns Hopkins University.

WHO warns of second wave of COVID-19 as global cases near 5.5 million

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his&nbsp;country while having a picnic with his friends.

A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance''&nbsp;while picnicking in the Phoenix Park.

The statement from Varadkar’s office on Monday night said phase one of Ireland’s lifting of lockdown restrictions allowed a group of four people to meet outdoors as long as they were within five kilometres (three miles) of home and maintaining physical distance.

''Government guidelines allow people to spend time in the outdoors within 5km of their home while continuing to observe social distancing and good hygiene. There are no specific government guidelines on eating outdoors or picnics.''

The comment came after images appeared on social media showing the taoiseach with his partner, Matthew Barrett, and two friends near the park’s Wellington monument.&nbsp;

The outing appeared to contradict advice given in a media briefing last week by Liz Canavan, assistant secretary of the Department of the Taoiseach. She said: ''If you’re visiting a public amenity try not to stay too long at the site or have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.''

<aside data-component="rich-link" data-link-name="rich-link-1 | 1">Varadkar also allegedly defied&nbsp;a recommendation that was given to him by a senior government official.</aside>

However, the chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, said the images of the picnic appeared to show respect for the rules. “I didn’t see any pictures that are in violation of that involving the Taoiseach.”

&nbsp;

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his country while having a picnic with his friends. A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance'' while picnicking in the Phoenix Park.

Irish taoiseach Leo Varadkar has denied violating any norms regarding coronavirus in his country while having a picnic with his friends. A spokesperson for Varadkar issued a statement on Monday night saying he ''broke no laws, breached no regulations and observed public health guidance'' while picnicking in the Phoenix Park. The statement from Varadkar’s office on Monday night said phase one of Ireland’s lifting of lockdown restrictions allowed a group of four people to meet outdoors as long as they were within five kilometres (three miles) of home and maintaining physical distance. ''Government guidelines allow people to spend time in the outdoors within 5km of their home while continuing to observe social distancing and good hygiene. There are no specific government guidelines on eating outdoors or picnics.'' The comment came after images appeared on social media showing the taoiseach with his partner, Matthew Barrett, and two friends near the park’s Wellington monument. The outing appeared to contradict advice given in a media briefing last week by Liz Canavan, assistant secretary of the Department of the Taoiseach. She said: ''If you’re visiting a public amenity try not to stay too long at the site or have picnics. Please do your exercise and then go home.'' Varadkar also allegedly defied a recommendation that was given to him by a senior government official. However, the chief medical officer, Tony Holohan, said the images of the picnic appeared to show respect for the rules. “I didn’t see any pictures that are in violation of that involving the Taoiseach.”

Irish taoiseach Varadkar denies breaching COVID-19 regulations during picnic

Author

Zee News Rajasthan

Editor

Vyomica Berry

Home

Live Tv

Latest

World

India

Business

Entertainment

Sports

Opinions

Videos

Photos

Gravitas

Lifestyle

Science

Tech

Rajasthan News in Hindi: In-depth coverage of Rajasthan Crime, Political News, Education, Rajasthan Weather Update and Latest Rajasthan News on Zee News Rajasthan.