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A fire at the state-run hospital in Pakistan’s Islamabad on Wednesday (Aug 26) claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies. The fire broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Ward at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, considered amongst the best in the country. When the fire broke out, the nursery was housing 15 newborns, of whom just one was rescued.&nbsp;Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences is a premier state-run hospital which receives approximately 7,000–9,000 patients daily, with 30,000–40,000 people benefiting from the facility each day when attendants and families are included, according to Pakistan's Federal Health Minister.&nbsp;It is also the largest tertiary-care hospital in Islamabad, with nearly 1,300 beds and more than 27 specialties.&nbsp;Notably, it was also the same hospital where former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan was admitted for a brief medical examination where he was declared fit and later taken back to prison.&nbsp;<h2>What caused the fire?</h2>&nbsp;Though the exact technical cause has not yet been established, a preliminary report released by PIMS said &nbsp;that a nebuliser near an incubator reportedly exploded, after which oxygen caught fire and smoke entered the babies' breathing systems, reported Geo News.&nbsp;Initially it was reported that an electrical short circuit caused the fire, apparently starting around the AC. Meanwhile, an official fact-finding committee has been ordered to determine precisely what caused the ignition and what allowed it to spread.&nbsp;<h2>Inadequate safety arrangements</h2>&nbsp;The nursery contained high concentrations of supplemental oxygen, which according to officials intensified the fire.&nbsp;But what is great concern was that there were serious fire-safety and evacuation problems. A fire-brigade report cited inadequate safety arrangements, including closed emergency exits and obstructions on evacuation routes. There are also allegations that hospital security initially obstructed firefighters.&nbsp;

Initially it was reported that an electrical short circuit caused the fire at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, apparently starting around the AC.

A fire at the state-run hospital in Pakistan’s Islamabad on Wednesday (Aug 26) claimed the lives of 14 newborn babies. The fire broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Ward at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, considered amongst the best in the country. When the fire broke out, the nursery was housing 15 newborns, of whom just one was rescued. Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences is a premier state-run hospital which receives approximately 7,000–9,000 patients daily, with 30,000–40,000 people benefiting from the facility each day when attendants and families are included, according to Pakistan's Federal Health Minister. It is also the largest tertiary-care hospital in Islamabad, with nearly 1,300 beds and more than 27 specialties. Notably, it was also the same hospital where former prime minister of Pakistan Imran Khan was admitted for a brief medical examination where he was declared fit and later taken back to prison. What caused the fire? Though the exact technical cause has not yet been established, a preliminary report released by PIMS said that a nebuliser near an incubator reportedly exploded, after which oxygen caught fire and smoke entered the babies' breathing systems, reported Geo News. Initially it was reported that an electrical short circuit caused the fire, apparently starting around the AC. Meanwhile, an official fact-finding committee has been ordered to determine precisely what caused the ignition and what allowed it to spread. Inadequate safety arrangements The nursery contained high concentrations of supplemental oxygen, which according to officials intensified the fire. But what is great concern was that there were serious fire-safety and evacuation problems. A fire-brigade report cited inadequate safety arrangements, including closed emergency exits and obstructions on evacuation routes. There are also allegations that hospital security initially obstructed firefighters.

Initially it was reported that an electrical short circuit caused the fire at Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, apparently starting around the AC.

Islamabad hospital fire: What we know about one of the biggest facility that housed Imran Khan

Foreign intelligence services have significantly escalated their operations against German companies, according to a survey released Wednesday (Aug 26) by the Bitkom digital business federation, which highlighted growing cyber and espionage threats tied to China, Russia, and Iran. While organised crime remains the primary source of overall data theft, industrial espionage, and sabotage, 37 per cent of targeted companies traced at least one attack over the past 12 months to foreign intelligence agencies. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst described the shift at a press conference as a "dramatic rise," up from 28 per cent the prior year and just seven percent in 2023.&nbsp;The study based on a survey of 1,003 German enterprises with 10 or more employees noted that 76 per cent of total financial damage stemmed from cyberattacks, though traditional physical incidents like hardware theft were also recorded. Among victimised firms, 52 per cent traced incidents to China, while 49 per cent identified Russian origins. Attacks linked to Iran rose to nine per cent, more than doubling from four per cent last year.Attending the presentation, Sinan Selen, head of Germany's domestic intelligence agency (BfV), stated that the findings fit "seamlessly with the high threat level" currently facing the nation.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iranian-hackers-behind-cyberattack-on-minnesota-water-systems-what-we-know-1785484942363">Iranian hackers behind cyberattack on Minnesota water systems? What we know</a>&nbsp;"Both Russia's ongoing war of aggression and the advancing, covert use of AI in cyberattacks pose major challenges for companies," Selen remarked, adding that “the security and defence industry is a particularly attractive target area for foreign services,” news agency AFP quoted.&nbsp;Wintergerst observed that state actors are refining their tactics while "less professional actors are getting new opportunities thanks to artificial intelligence." He also cautioned that the "number of undetected incidents is getting bigger."&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-cyberattack-hits-every-39-seconds-now-bengaluru-based-firm-aims-to-address-cybersecurity-gaps-1775207093177">New cyberattack hits every 39 seconds: Now, Bengaluru-based firm aims to address cybersecurity gaps</a>&nbsp;Overall, 96 per cent of surveyed firms suspected they were targeted, but only 67 per cent could confirm it with certainty. Due to this hidden margin of error, Bitkom estimated total annual damages across the German economy to fall within a wide range of $246 billion to $316 billion.

A Bitkom survey reveals a dramatic surge in state-sponsored cyber espionage targeting German businesses, with 37% of affected firms tracing attacks to intelligence agencies from China, Russia, and Iran, causing damages up to €270.8 billion.

Foreign intelligence services have significantly escalated their operations against German companies, according to a survey released Wednesday (Aug 26) by the Bitkom digital business federation, which highlighted growing cyber and espionage threats tied to China, Russia, and Iran. While organised crime remains the primary source of overall data theft, industrial espionage, and sabotage, 37 per cent of targeted companies traced at least one attack over the past 12 months to foreign intelligence agencies. Bitkom President Ralf Wintergerst described the shift at a press conference as a "dramatic rise," up from 28 per cent the prior year and just seven percent in 2023. The study based on a survey of 1,003 German enterprises with 10 or more employees noted that 76 per cent of total financial damage stemmed from cyberattacks, though traditional physical incidents like hardware theft were also recorded. Among victimised firms, 52 per cent traced incidents to China, while 49 per cent identified Russian origins. Attacks linked to Iran rose to nine per cent, more than doubling from four per cent last year. Attending the presentation, Sinan Selen, head of Germany's domestic intelligence agency (BfV), stated that the findings fit "seamlessly with the high threat level" currently facing the nation. Also read: Iranian hackers behind cyberattack on Minnesota water systems? What we know "Both Russia's ongoing war of aggression and the advancing, covert use of AI in cyberattacks pose major challenges for companies," Selen remarked, adding that “the security and defence industry is a particularly attractive target area for foreign services,” news agency AFP quoted. Wintergerst observed that state actors are refining their tactics while "less professional actors are getting new opportunities thanks to artificial intelligence." He also cautioned that the "number of undetected incidents is getting bigger." Also read: New cyberattack hits every 39 seconds: Now, Bengaluru-based firm aims to address cybersecurity gaps Overall, 96 per cent of surveyed firms suspected they were targeted, but only 67 per cent could confirm it with certainty. Due to this hidden margin of error, Bitkom estimated total annual damages across the German economy to fall within a wide range of $246 billion to $316 billion.

A Bitkom survey reveals a dramatic surge in state-sponsored cyber espionage targeting German businesses, with 37% of affected firms tracing attacks to intelligence agencies from China, Russia, and Iran, causing damages up to €270.8 billion.

Foreign espionage attacks against German companies surge to 37%, Bitkom report reveals

A 16-year-old boy in Norway has been charged with planning an attack on a kindergarten, according to a court in Vestfold. Police believe the teenager planned to target random people in and around the kindergarten. He had acquired a knife and several axes, written a manifesto and reportedly told police about his plans.&nbsp;According to AFP, police prosecutor Lise Dalhaug said the boy was arrested after authorities received a tip from an "anonymous person abroad" who had "become aware of disturbing threats on various social media platforms."&nbsp;Police later identified the teenager and arrested him. Authorities are investigating the case as "preparation for a terrorist act".&nbsp;The arrest took place in early June but was not made public until now.&nbsp;Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten reported that the teenager planned to attack a preschool with axes and knives. However, Dalhaug did not confirm the report.&nbsp;"He has talked about several targets," Dalhaug was quoted as saying by AFP, adding that she did not want to reveal what those targets were at this stage.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-95-killed-133-indians-among-403-still-missing-after-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787755891807">At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 579 still missing after flash floods in Nepal</a><h3>Police probe teenager's alleged plans</h3>Dalhaug said the boy had made threats on different social media platforms. The investigation so far indicated "that he was alone in the planning".&nbsp;The teenager lived in the Vestfold region south of Oslo, she said. Police hope to complete the investigation by the end of September.&nbsp;Asked about the possible sentence, Dalhaug said "it is a very serious offence". She added that the teenager could face a "harsh prison sentence."

A 16 year old boy in Norway has been charged with preparing a terrorist act after police accused him of planning an attack on a kindergarten and targeting people nearby.

A 16-year-old boy in Norway has been charged with planning an attack on a kindergarten, according to a court in Vestfold. Police believe the teenager planned to target random people in and around the kindergarten. He had acquired a knife and several axes, written a manifesto and reportedly told police about his plans. According to AFP, police prosecutor Lise Dalhaug said the boy was arrested after authorities received a tip from an "anonymous person abroad" who had "become aware of disturbing threats on various social media platforms." Police later identified the teenager and arrested him. Authorities are investigating the case as "preparation for a terrorist act". The arrest took place in early June but was not made public until now. Norwegian newspaper Aftenposten reported that the teenager planned to attack a preschool with axes and knives. However, Dalhaug did not confirm the report. "He has talked about several targets," Dalhaug was quoted as saying by AFP, adding that she did not want to reveal what those targets were at this stage. Also Read: At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 579 still missing after flash floods in Nepal Police probe teenager's alleged plans Dalhaug said the boy had made threats on different social media platforms. The investigation so far indicated "that he was alone in the planning". The teenager lived in the Vestfold region south of Oslo, she said. Police hope to complete the investigation by the end of September. Asked about the possible sentence, Dalhaug said "it is a very serious offence". She added that the teenager could face a "harsh prison sentence."

A 16 year old boy in Norway has been charged with preparing a terrorist act after police accused him of planning an attack on a kindergarten and targeting people nearby.

16-year-old charged with preparing terror attack on kindergarten in Norway

United States Capitol Police on Tuesday arrested a California man with what they said was a guillotine in the bed of a pickup truck parked near the US Capitol complex. The man has been identified as 35-year-old Philan-Tam-Duy Le of Julian, California. He was arrested shortly after 3 pm in local time when the truck he was driving was parked near the east side of the Capitol grounds, Capitol police said.The police said that they are investigating why the suspect, who was driving from California was had made the trip and why he was transporting a device of capital punishment dating to 18th century Europe. The device had a horrific history associated with the French Revolution. It consists of a heavy angled blade mounted on a tall wooden frame. The blade drops on the head to behead individuals. It was named after French physician Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, who advocated for a quicker and less painful method of execution. It became a symbol of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution as revolutionaries put French elites through that capital punishment.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-smart-border-security-grid-explained-1787765111816">India’s ‘Smart Border’: How will the new high-tech security grid work?</a>Le was arrested for carrying a dangerous weapon and for possession of a guillotine, police said. They said they have confiscated the guillotine.According to statements given by the suspect's brother to the Los Angeles Times, the guillotine was built and transported as a "symbol of disapproval". The brother noted that Le was deeply dissatisfied with the American political system, harbouring strong dislikes for both major political parties, including President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">This afternoon our officers seized a guillotine, which they spotted in the bed of a pickup truck along the 100 block of East Capitol Street. You can learn more about the arrest here: <a href="https://t.co/JibVXWBj8j">https://t.co/JibVXWBj8j</a> <a href="https://t.co/orxccDAyZc">pic.twitter.com/orxccDAyZc</a>&mdash; The U.S. Capitol Police (@CapitolPolice) <a href="https://x.com/CapitolPolice/status/2092385694802903194?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

US Capitol Police arrested a California man after finding a guillotine in his pickup truck parked near the Capitol complex in Washington, DC.

United States Capitol Police on Tuesday arrested a California man with what they said was a guillotine in the bed of a pickup truck parked near the US Capitol complex. The man has been identified as 35-year-old Philan-Tam-Duy Le of Julian, California. He was arrested shortly after 3 pm in local time when the truck he was driving was parked near the east side of the Capitol grounds, Capitol police said. The police said that they are investigating why the suspect, who was driving from California was had made the trip and why he was transporting a device of capital punishment dating to 18th century Europe. The device had a horrific history associated with the French Revolution. It consists of a heavy angled blade mounted on a tall wooden frame. The blade drops on the head to behead individuals. It was named after French physician Joseph-Ignace Guillotin, who advocated for a quicker and less painful method of execution. It became a symbol of the Reign of Terror during the French Revolution as revolutionaries put French elites through that capital punishment. Also Read: India’s ‘Smart Border’: How will the new high-tech security grid work? Le was arrested for carrying a dangerous weapon and for possession of a guillotine, police said. They said they have confiscated the guillotine. According to statements given by the suspect's brother to the Los Angeles Times, the guillotine was built and transported as a "symbol of disapproval". The brother noted that Le was deeply dissatisfied with the American political system, harbouring strong dislikes for both major political parties, including President Donald Trump and California Governor Gavin Newsom

US Capitol Police arrested a California man after finding a guillotine in his pickup truck parked near the Capitol complex in Washington, DC.

Man arrested near US Capitol with guillotine in pickup truck: What happened?

US law enforcement agencies on Tuesday (Aug 25) seized internet domains allegedly operated by Chinese state-sponsored hackers to compromise government networks and critical national infrastructure. The US Department of Justice and the FBI stated that the seized domains were tied to a Chinese hacking collective designated as "QTFY," as well as hacking infrastructure and platforms operating under the names "QScan" and "QTRouter".&nbsp;Federal authorities identified a broad selection of prominent intrusion targets linked to QTFY's cyber activities. Public sector victims included the Federal Reserve, NASA, the US Senate, and the departments of Justice, Energy, and Health and Human Services. In the private sector, targets allegedly spanned defense contractors, financial institutions, telecommunications providers, power companies, universities, and healthcare facilities.In an official statement detailing the law enforcement action, Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “Federal law enforcement investigated and disabled the PRC’s malicious software, the latest in a series of technical operations to dismantle indiscriminate hacking activities sponsored by the People’s Republic of China.”&nbsp;US Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California, said, We’re taking the fight to PRC-sponsored cybercriminals to protect the critical services Americans rely on every day.”&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/chinese-ai-model-kimi-k3-bypasses-cybersecurity-sandbox-during-hacking-test-1786131800003">Chinese AI model Kimi K3 bypasses cybersecurity sandbox during hacking test</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the successful strike, noting that the joint initiative led directly to the shutdown of a "global botnet and hacking platform used by Chinese state-sponsored hackers to target US critical infrastructure".&nbsp;According to unsealed court filings, QTFY functions as a commercial entity offering custom computer hacking services to paying entities. Key clients allegedly include state entities such as the People's Liberation Army and the Chinese Ministry of State Security.&nbsp;Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/joe-root-brydon-carse-handcuff-row-england-vs-pakistan-lords-test-1787673950513">England captain Root ‘hacked off’ with Carse’s handcuff row ahead of Lord’s Test against Pakistan</a>&nbsp;While Washington and its international allies regularly condemn alleged state-backed Chinese cyber-espionage targeting commercial, military, and governmental operations, Beijing consistently denies all such accusations.

US federal authorities, including the DOJ and FBI, seized internet domains operated by Chinese state-sponsored hacking collective QTFY and its platforms QScan and QTRouter, which targeted NASA, the Federal Reserve, and critical infrastructure. 

US law enforcement agencies on Tuesday (Aug 25) seized internet domains allegedly operated by Chinese state-sponsored hackers to compromise government networks and critical national infrastructure. The US Department of Justice and the FBI stated that the seized domains were tied to a Chinese hacking collective designated as "QTFY," as well as hacking infrastructure and platforms operating under the names "QScan" and "QTRouter". Federal authorities identified a broad selection of prominent intrusion targets linked to QTFY's cyber activities. Public sector victims included the Federal Reserve, NASA, the US Senate, and the departments of Justice, Energy, and Health and Human Services. In the private sector, targets allegedly spanned defense contractors, financial institutions, telecommunications providers, power companies, universities, and healthcare facilities. In an official statement detailing the law enforcement action, Attorney General Todd Blanche stated, “Federal law enforcement investigated and disabled the PRC’s malicious software, the latest in a series of technical operations to dismantle indiscriminate hacking activities sponsored by the People’s Republic of China.” US Attorney Adam Gordon for the Southern District of California, said, We’re taking the fight to PRC-sponsored cybercriminals to protect the critical services Americans rely on every day.” Also read: Chinese AI model Kimi K3 bypasses cybersecurity sandbox during hacking test FBI Director Kash Patel confirmed the successful strike, noting that the joint initiative led directly to the shutdown of a "global botnet and hacking platform used by Chinese state-sponsored hackers to target US critical infrastructure". According to unsealed court filings, QTFY functions as a commercial entity offering custom computer hacking services to paying entities. Key clients allegedly include state entities such as the People's Liberation Army and the Chinese Ministry of State Security. Also read: England captain Root ‘hacked off’ with Carse’s handcuff row ahead of Lord’s Test against Pakistan While Washington and its international allies regularly condemn alleged state-backed Chinese cyber-espionage targeting commercial, military, and governmental operations, Beijing consistently denies all such accusations.

US federal authorities, including the DOJ and FBI, seized internet domains operated by Chinese state-sponsored hacking collective QTFY and its platforms QScan and QTRouter, which targeted NASA, the Federal Reserve, and critical infrastructure.

US cracks down on Chinese hacking platforms used to target NASA and Federal Reserve

Meta has reached a settlement with US states and territories over a court case linked to child safety on Facebook and Instagram.&nbsp;The Mark Zuckerberg-led tech giant will pay up to $16.7 billion to a coalition of US states and introduce sweeping new limits on how teenagers use its social media platforms. The agreement was filed in court on Wednesday and brings a landmark trial in California to an end.&nbsp;The proposed settlement would resolve claims brought by 29 states. They accused Meta of deliberately designing its platforms to hook young users, misleading the public about the risks and unlawfully collecting data from children under 13.&nbsp;The new restrictions on young users go further than any measures Meta has previously accepted. The changes follow years of criticism from parents and experts over the impact of major social media platforms on children.&nbsp;Concerns over apps such as Instagram and Facebook, along with rival platforms including Snapchat and TikTok, have also led to the introduction of age limits and smartphone bans in schools across the world.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-95-killed-133-indians-among-403-still-missing-after-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787755891807">At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal</a><h3>Meta still faces other legal cases</h3>The settlement does not cover thousands of personal injury claims against Meta in the United States or separate lawsuits filed by school districts.&nbsp;The case involving the 29 states was among the most extensive legal challenges faced by Meta. The company had warned that losing the case in court could have exposed it to more than $1 trillion in penalties.&nbsp;"Meta has agreed to make massive transformations that will reduce the risk of harm from its platforms -- and will do it within months," California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement.&nbsp;He described the outcome as "real change, real transparency, and real enforceable protections for children."&nbsp;The court filing states that the settlement does not amount to an admission of liability or wrongdoing by Meta. The company has consistently denied the allegations. The agreement will also need court approval before it takes effect.<h3>New limits for teenage users</h3>The biggest changes under the agreement are not financial. Meta has agreed to introduce several new safeguards that will significantly change how teenagers use its platforms.&nbsp;Under one measure, Facebook and Instagram will automatically block teenage users between midnight and 6:00 am local time.&nbsp;Teenage accounts will also have a default limit of two hours of cumulative daily use across Meta's apps. Time spent messaging or watching long-form video will not count towards the limit.&nbsp;Both restrictions could become stricter if other social media companies adopt similar measures.&nbsp;Meta has presented the agreement as a possible framework for the wider social media industry and urged its competitors to follow the same approach. "Because teens move fluidly across dozens of apps, we need an industry-wide solution," said C.J. Mahoney, Meta's chief legal officer.&nbsp;"We therefore call on our industry peers, TikTok and YouTube, to implement this new framework, right away."&nbsp;If competing platforms agree to equivalent measures, the overnight block would be extended from 10 pm to 7 am. The daily usage allowance would also fall to 60 minutes per app, with a total limit of two hours.

Meta has agreed to a $16.7 billion settlement with US states over allegations of addictive design and child safety failures, while accepting new limits and safeguards for teenage users on Facebook and Instagram.

Meta has reached a settlement with US states and territories over a court case linked to child safety on Facebook and Instagram. The Mark Zuckerberg-led tech giant will pay up to $16.7 billion to a coalition of US states and introduce sweeping new limits on how teenagers use its social media platforms. The agreement was filed in court on Wednesday and brings a landmark trial in California to an end. The proposed settlement would resolve claims brought by 29 states. They accused Meta of deliberately designing its platforms to hook young users, misleading the public about the risks and unlawfully collecting data from children under 13. The new restrictions on young users go further than any measures Meta has previously accepted. The changes follow years of criticism from parents and experts over the impact of major social media platforms on children. Concerns over apps such as Instagram and Facebook, along with rival platforms including Snapchat and TikTok, have also led to the introduction of age limits and smartphone bans in schools across the world. Also Read: At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal Meta still faces other legal cases The settlement does not cover thousands of personal injury claims against Meta in the United States or separate lawsuits filed by school districts. The case involving the 29 states was among the most extensive legal challenges faced by Meta. The company had warned that losing the case in court could have exposed it to more than $1 trillion in penalties. "Meta has agreed to make massive transformations that will reduce the risk of harm from its platforms -- and will do it within months," California Attorney General Rob Bonta said in a statement. He described the outcome as "real change, real transparency, and real enforceable protections for children." The court filing states that the settlement does not amount to an admission of liability or wrongdoing by Meta. The company has consistently denied the allegations. The agreement will also need court approval before it takes effect. New limits for teenage users The biggest changes under the agreement are not financial. Meta has agreed to introduce several new safeguards that will significantly change how teenagers use its platforms. Under one measure, Facebook and Instagram will automatically block teenage users between midnight and 6:00 am local time. Teenage accounts will also have a default limit of two hours of cumulative daily use across Meta's apps. Time spent messaging or watching long-form video will not count towards the limit. Both restrictions could become stricter if other social media companies adopt similar measures. Meta has presented the agreement as a possible framework for the wider social media industry and urged its competitors to follow the same approach. "Because teens move fluidly across dozens of apps, we need an industry-wide solution," said C.J. Mahoney, Meta's chief legal officer. "We therefore call on our industry peers, TikTok and YouTube, to implement this new framework, right away." If competing platforms agree to equivalent measures, the overnight block would be extended from 10 pm to 7 am. The daily usage allowance would also fall to 60 minutes per app, with a total limit of two hours.

Meta has agreed to a $16.7 billion settlement with US states over allegations of addictive design and child safety failures, while accepting new limits and safeguards for teenage users on Facebook and Instagram.

Meta reaches $16.7 billion settlement with US states over teen safety and addictive design

US President Donald Trump once again said on Wednesday that there will be no “Israel” without him. Speaking with the conservative radio commentator Glenn Beck, he said that if he had not walked out of the Obama-era JCPOA, Iran would have had nuclear weapons. He claimed that it was "one of the most dangerous deals ever," describing it as a "path to a nuclear weapon.""Israel would have been totally knocked out," he added. "If Donald Trump wasn't president, there would be no Israel right now … and that's a guarantee," said Trump, reiterating the comments he made at the G7 summit.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-sanctions-china-impact-1787746089398">Will Trump’s new Iran sanctions work? China holds the key</a><h2>Trump thinks Mojtaba Khamenei is alive&nbsp;</h2>Trump said that he believes that the Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive, despite recent speculation around his absence from public view since taking over following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli strike.“I don’t think he’s dead. He was very seriously wounded. The left side of his body, the arm, the leg, the whole thing. He was very seriously wounded. But I don’t think he’s dead," Trump said in an interview with the conservative radio host Glenn Beck.&nbsp;Trump further added that if the Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was not alive, then, “they (Iran) are putting on a very good show.” Recently, Iran's Fars News Agency released undated archival footage showing Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei presiding over a religious academic study session. The video was released amid claims by Israeli media that Mojtaba Khamenei was in an "extremely critical condition".Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-pakistan-deploying-bayraktar-tb2-drones-1787756607714">Why is Pakistan deploying Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones near India border?</a><h2>Trump said the Strait of Hormuz is functioning</h2>In the interview with conservative radio host Glenn Beck aired Wednesday, Trump said that the Strait of Hormuz is "functioning," but there will still be a drone or rocket shot sometimes.&nbsp;"We got rid of the mines," the president said. "But the strait, it's functioning; it's a functioning strait. Yes, every once in a while there will be a drone or a rocket or something shot, but it is a very functioning strait. A lot of oil is pouring out."In another interview with &nbsp;Al Jazeera on Wednesday, Trump said that the US is "achieving a very big victory", but the war in Iran will continue "as long as necessary", and there is no timetable in place for resuming peace talks.&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">WATCH IN FULL: President Donald J. Trump&#39;s interview with Glenn Beck. <a href="https://t.co/O3WJTsKsQS">pic.twitter.com/O3WJTsKsQS</a>&mdash; Open Source Intel (@Osint613) <a href="https://x.com/Osint613/status/2092623390003646756?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Donald Trump claimed Iran would have developed nuclear weapons without his actions, saying “there would be no Israel right now".

US President Donald Trump once again said on Wednesday that there will be no “Israel” without him. Speaking with the conservative radio commentator Glenn Beck, he said that if he had not walked out of the Obama-era JCPOA, Iran would have had nuclear weapons. He claimed that it was "one of the most dangerous deals ever," describing it as a "path to a nuclear weapon." "Israel would have been totally knocked out," he added. "If Donald Trump wasn't president, there would be no Israel right now … and that's a guarantee," said Trump, reiterating the comments he made at the G7 summit. Also Read: Will Trump’s new Iran sanctions work? China holds the key Trump thinks Mojtaba Khamenei is alive Trump said that he believes that the Iranian Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei is alive, despite recent speculation around his absence from public view since taking over following the assassination of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei in a joint US-Israeli strike. “I don’t think he’s dead. He was very seriously wounded. The left side of his body, the arm, the leg, the whole thing. He was very seriously wounded. But I don’t think he’s dead," Trump said in an interview with the conservative radio host Glenn Beck. Trump further added that if the Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei was not alive, then, “they (Iran) are putting on a very good show.” Recently, Iran's Fars News Agency released undated archival footage showing Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei presiding over a religious academic study session. The video was released amid claims by Israeli media that Mojtaba Khamenei was in an "extremely critical condition". Also Read: Why is Pakistan deploying Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones near India border? Trump said the Strait of Hormuz is functioning In the interview with conservative radio host Glenn Beck aired Wednesday, Trump said that the Strait of Hormuz is "functioning," but there will still be a drone or rocket shot sometimes. "We got rid of the mines," the president said. "But the strait, it's functioning; it's a functioning strait. Yes, every once in a while there will be a drone or a rocket or something shot, but it is a very functioning strait. A lot of oil is pouring out." In another interview with Al Jazeera on Wednesday, Trump said that the US is "achieving a very big victory", but the war in Iran will continue "as long as necessary", and there is no timetable in place for resuming peace talks.

Donald Trump claimed Iran would have developed nuclear weapons without his actions, saying “there would be no Israel right now".

Trump once again claims without him there would be ‘no Israel right now’

India and China have signalled a tentative step forward on their long-running border dispute, agreeing to push for an “early and substantial harvest” of boundary delimitation after high-level talks in Beijing. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and China’s Wang Yi, the country’s top diplomat, met on Tuesday for the 25th round of Special Representatives talks on the boundary question. The discussions produced an eight-point consensus that officials on both sides described as constructive.&nbsp;&nbsp;At the heart of the "consensus" is a decision to activate two technical groups under the existing border coordination mechanism. An Expert Group on Boundary Delimitation and a Working Group on Border Management will now draw up their "terms of reference" and begin work aimed at delivering concrete results in selected sectors of the roughly 3,500km contested frontier.&nbsp;“The Expert Group on Boundary Delimitation and Working Group on Border Management under the WMCC would respectively advance discussions on an Early and Substantial Harvest of boundary delimitation and Border Management,” the joint outcomes stated. “The first task for both these groups would be to agree on their respective Terms of Reference.”&nbsp;The language marks a modest advance on last year’s agreement merely to “explore” an early harvest. Diplomats say it reflects a shared desire to move beyond crisis management after years of tension following the deadly 2020 clash in the Galwan Valley. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the 2005 political parameters agreement and to seeking “a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution.” They also pledged to maintain peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control, stressing that any incident on the ground should be resolved quickly through existing military and diplomatic channels.&nbsp;Practical measures include two new meeting points for senior military commanders and additional hotlines in the eastern and middle sectors. Progress was noted on the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and the reopening of three traditional border trading posts. Talks on shared rivers are scheduled for next month, and the next Special Representatives meeting will take place in India in 2027.&nbsp;Relations between the two Asian giants have seen a limited re-set since PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of summits in 2024 and 2025. Troop disengagement in eastern Ladakh and the gradual restart of flights, visas, and people-to-people exchanges have created space post such high-level meetings.

Following the 25th Special Representatives' meeting between NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese FM Wang Yi, India and China reached an eight-point consensus to push for an "early harvest" on boundary delimitation and establish new military hotline channels along the LAC. 

India and China have signalled a tentative step forward on their long-running border dispute, agreeing to push for an “early and substantial harvest” of boundary delimitation after high-level talks in Beijing. National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and China’s Wang Yi, the country’s top diplomat, met on Tuesday for the 25th round of Special Representatives talks on the boundary question. The discussions produced an eight-point consensus that officials on both sides described as constructive. At the heart of the "consensus" is a decision to activate two technical groups under the existing border coordination mechanism. An Expert Group on Boundary Delimitation and a Working Group on Border Management will now draw up their "terms of reference" and begin work aimed at delivering concrete results in selected sectors of the roughly 3,500km contested frontier. “The Expert Group on Boundary Delimitation and Working Group on Border Management under the WMCC would respectively advance discussions on an Early and Substantial Harvest of boundary delimitation and Border Management,” the joint outcomes stated. “The first task for both these groups would be to agree on their respective Terms of Reference.” The language marks a modest advance on last year’s agreement merely to “explore” an early harvest. Diplomats say it reflects a shared desire to move beyond crisis management after years of tension following the deadly 2020 clash in the Galwan Valley. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to the 2005 political parameters agreement and to seeking “a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution.” They also pledged to maintain peace and tranquillity along the Line of Actual Control, stressing that any incident on the ground should be resolved quickly through existing military and diplomatic channels. Practical measures include two new meeting points for senior military commanders and additional hotlines in the eastern and middle sectors. Progress was noted on the Kailash Mansarovar pilgrimage and the reopening of three traditional border trading posts. Talks on shared rivers are scheduled for next month, and the next Special Representatives meeting will take place in India in 2027. Relations between the two Asian giants have seen a limited re-set since PM Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi Jinping met on the sidelines of summits in 2024 and 2025. Troop disengagement in eastern Ladakh and the gradual restart of flights, visas, and people-to-people exchanges have created space post such high-level meetings.

Following the 25th Special Representatives' meeting between NSA Ajit Doval and Chinese FM Wang Yi, India and China reached an eight-point consensus to push for an "early harvest" on boundary delimitation and establish new military hotline channels along the LAC.

India and China agree to push for ‘early harvest’ on border delimitation, announce new military hotlines

Pakistan has reportedly deployed unmanned combat aerial vehicles across the western border with India. According to a report by CNN-News 18, which cites intelligence sources, Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles were spotted across the border. These high-end, medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drones are reportedly conducting tactical reconnaissance sorties very close to the zero line.The reported deployment of Bayraktar drones emerged following reports of a heavy flurry of Turkish Air Force C-130 Hercules and A400M transport aircraft flights tracked between August 19 and August 21. According to open-source flight tracking data, the activities were reported at three military bases: Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, Masroor in Karachi, and Murid in Chakwal. Neither the Turkish Ministry of National Defence nor the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of Pakistan has confirmed what was inside the consignments, but media reports are drawing inferences based on the transport activity.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-iran-sanctions-china-impact-1787746089398">Will Trump’s new Iran sanctions work? China holds the key</a>The Bayraktar TB2 drones use high-resolution optical and infrared suites to map gaps in Indian ground surveillance and identify sensor coverage blind spots. It is not only capable of carrying out intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions; it can also carry precision-guided munitions and be converted into a strike sortie whenever required. Apart from the strikes, prolonged deployment of these UACVs can allow the Pakistani operator to build a detailed picture of the terrain and manage surveillance across vulnerable stretches.&nbsp;Earlier in August, a report by CNN- News 18, citing Pakistani sources, claimed that Pakistan is expanding its naval and military infrastructure near Sir Creek, as part of a new project called “Ababeel - The Divine Strike". It claims that Pakistan is deploying Turkish drones, modern Chinese hovercraft, and high-speed naval boats along with the latest rocket and air defence systems. The emergence of these reports coincides with Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signing the Makkah Joint Defence Pact.&nbsp;

Pakistan has deployed Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones near the Indian border, raising questions over its surveillance and military strategy.

Pakistan has reportedly deployed unmanned combat aerial vehicles across the western border with India. According to a report by CNN-News 18, which cites intelligence sources, Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 unmanned combat aerial vehicles were spotted across the border. These high-end, medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) drones are reportedly conducting tactical reconnaissance sorties very close to the zero line. The reported deployment of Bayraktar drones emerged following reports of a heavy flurry of Turkish Air Force C-130 Hercules and A400M transport aircraft flights tracked between August 19 and August 21. According to open-source flight tracking data, the activities were reported at three military bases: Nur Khan in Rawalpindi, Masroor in Karachi, and Murid in Chakwal. Neither the Turkish Ministry of National Defence nor the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) of Pakistan has confirmed what was inside the consignments, but media reports are drawing inferences based on the transport activity. Also Read: Will Trump’s new Iran sanctions work? China holds the key The Bayraktar TB2 drones use high-resolution optical and infrared suites to map gaps in Indian ground surveillance and identify sensor coverage blind spots. It is not only capable of carrying out intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions; it can also carry precision-guided munitions and be converted into a strike sortie whenever required. Apart from the strikes, prolonged deployment of these UACVs can allow the Pakistani operator to build a detailed picture of the terrain and manage surveillance across vulnerable stretches. Earlier in August, a report by CNN- News 18, citing Pakistani sources, claimed that Pakistan is expanding its naval and military infrastructure near Sir Creek, as part of a new project called “Ababeel - The Divine Strike". It claims that Pakistan is deploying Turkish drones, modern Chinese hovercraft, and high-speed naval boats along with the latest rocket and air defence systems. The emergence of these reports coincides with Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signing the Makkah Joint Defence Pact.

Pakistan has deployed Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 drones near the Indian border, raising questions over its surveillance and military strategy.

Why is Pakistan deploying Turkish Bayraktar TB2 drones near India border?

The Iranian Parliament opened its session with chants of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel".Iranian leaders have been portraying strength and unity in their war against America. They have refused to budge on the Strait of Hormuz and their conditions for reopening it.&nbsp;On the other hand, the United States now seems to be getting impatient.&nbsp;Washington is offering a potential trade-off. Sanctions and maritime pressure could be eased if Tehran agrees to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks by Iran-aligned groups. The message was reportedly carried to Tehran by Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, during his visit to Iran.&nbsp;But the Iranians have seemingly rejected the offer, even as President Donald Trump looks at different options to help end the war.&nbsp;Even as he confronts Iran, Trump is praising his relationship with Kim Jong Un, an ally of Iran.&nbsp;In a rare and unprecedented visit, American CIA Director John Ratcliffe made a secret trip to Moscow on Tuesday this week. While the visit has raised several questions, the one big question on everyone's mind is: What is President Donald Trump trying to accomplish?&nbsp;Is Trump trying to end the war between Russia and Ukraine? Or is he trying to use Russia to help end the war with Iran?&nbsp;Ratcliffe's visit was not announced in advance. He reportedly met with senior Russian intelligence officials but did not meet Russian President Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;The visit assumes significance because it is not just about an American intelligence officer's presence in Russia. The timing of his visit also comes right in between stalled peace talks in both the Russia-Ukraine war and the Iran war. Trump has repeatedly said that he wants to end the Russia-Ukraine war. But that has not happened so far.&nbsp;At the same time, the United States is fighting a separate and increasingly dangerous conflict with Iran.So what was it? Russia or Iran that Trump wanted Ratcliffe to speak about?&nbsp;Russia has close ties with Iran. Moscow could potentially play a role in getting Tehran to stop attacks on American forces and helping negotiate an end to the fighting.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-95-killed-133-indians-among-403-still-missing-after-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787755891807">At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal</a>&nbsp;America's NBC News has reported that Iranian attacks caused significantly more damage to US military sites across West Asia than the Pentagon had initially disclosed. The damage reportedly included aircraft, hangars, warehouses, command facilities, radar and communications equipment.&nbsp;So essentially, Trump is dealing with two major wars at the same time, and he is stuck in both.Ratcliffe's secret trip to Moscow could be an attempt to make progress on either conflict, or possibly both.&nbsp;But remember, there is no public evidence yet that Ratcliffe's visit produced a deal or that Russia has agreed to help end the Iran war.&nbsp;All that the Kremlin has said is that it was related to "contacts between security services".The last known direct contact between the two intelligence services was in March last year, when Ratcliffe and Russia's SVR chief Sergei Naryshkin spoke over the phone. They had discussed cooperation between their intelligence services and crisis management.&nbsp;Even though there is no clear picture yet, what is clear is that the Trump administration is using an unusual channel: America's top intelligence official going directly to Moscow at a moment when Washington is trying to find a way to stop two separate wars.&nbsp;So, is Trump trying to get Putin to help end the war in Ukraine, help end the war with Iran, or use one conflict to help solve the other?&nbsp;These are the big questions which remain unanswered at the moment.

Trump faces growing pressure to end the Iran war as Tehran rejects a US offer linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while CIA chief John Ratcliffe's secret Moscow visit raises questions over whether Russia could help resolve the conflict or the stalled Ukraine war.

The Iranian Parliament opened its session with chants of "Death to America" and "Death to Israel". Iranian leaders have been portraying strength and unity in their war against America. They have refused to budge on the Strait of Hormuz and their conditions for reopening it. On the other hand, the United States now seems to be getting impatient. Washington is offering a potential trade-off. Sanctions and maritime pressure could be eased if Tehran agrees to reopen the Strait of Hormuz and halt attacks by Iran-aligned groups. The message was reportedly carried to Tehran by Pakistan's army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, during his visit to Iran. But the Iranians have seemingly rejected the offer, even as President Donald Trump looks at different options to help end the war. Even as he confronts Iran, Trump is praising his relationship with Kim Jong Un, an ally of Iran. In a rare and unprecedented visit, American CIA Director John Ratcliffe made a secret trip to Moscow on Tuesday this week. While the visit has raised several questions, the one big question on everyone's mind is: What is President Donald Trump trying to accomplish? Is Trump trying to end the war between Russia and Ukraine? Or is he trying to use Russia to help end the war with Iran? Ratcliffe's visit was not announced in advance. He reportedly met with senior Russian intelligence officials but did not meet Russian President Vladimir Putin. The visit assumes significance because it is not just about an American intelligence officer's presence in Russia. The timing of his visit also comes right in between stalled peace talks in both the Russia-Ukraine war and the Iran war. Trump has repeatedly said that he wants to end the Russia-Ukraine war. But that has not happened so far. At the same time, the United States is fighting a separate and increasingly dangerous conflict with Iran. So what was it? Russia or Iran that Trump wanted Ratcliffe to speak about? Russia has close ties with Iran. Moscow could potentially play a role in getting Tehran to stop attacks on American forces and helping negotiate an end to the fighting. Also Read: At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal America's NBC News has reported that Iranian attacks caused significantly more damage to US military sites across West Asia than the Pentagon had initially disclosed. The damage reportedly included aircraft, hangars, warehouses, command facilities, radar and communications equipment. So essentially, Trump is dealing with two major wars at the same time, and he is stuck in both. Ratcliffe's secret trip to Moscow could be an attempt to make progress on either conflict, or possibly both. But remember, there is no public evidence yet that Ratcliffe's visit produced a deal or that Russia has agreed to help end the Iran war. All that the Kremlin has said is that it was related to "contacts between security services". The last known direct contact between the two intelligence services was in March last year, when Ratcliffe and Russia's SVR chief Sergei Naryshkin spoke over the phone. They had discussed cooperation between their intelligence services and crisis management. Even though there is no clear picture yet, what is clear is that the Trump administration is using an unusual channel: America's top intelligence official going directly to Moscow at a moment when Washington is trying to find a way to stop two separate wars. So, is Trump trying to get Putin to help end the war in Ukraine, help end the war with Iran, or use one conflict to help solve the other? These are the big questions which remain unanswered at the moment.

Trump faces growing pressure to end the Iran war as Tehran rejects a US offer linked to reopening the Strait of Hormuz, while CIA chief John Ratcliffe's secret Moscow visit raises questions over whether Russia could help resolve the conflict or the stalled Ukraine war.

Trump's Moscow mystery: Is Russia key to ending Iran and Ukraine wars?

Amid Japan's ongoing push for remilitarization, Russia has warned that Tokyo could develop its own nuclear weapons within a year. According to Russia's TASS news agency, Anton Kobyakov, Russian Presidential Assistant and Executive Secretary of the Organising Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum, said Japan could possess nuclear weapons within one year.&nbsp;"There is even talk about nuclear weapons, which Japan is capable of assembling in about a year. Prime Minister [Sanae] Takaichi’s aggressive rhetoric shows that the country’s former role in the broader framework of US regional and global strategy has changed significantly, shifting towards direct involvement," he was quoted as saying by TASS.&nbsp;At a memorial service marking the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in early August, Takaichi said Japan still follows its three non-nuclear principles. However, she did not make a clear commitment that the principles would continue to be maintained in the future.<h3>China also raises Japan's nuclear potential</h3>Earlier this month, China also renewed its warnings about Japan's nuclear potential. Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui claimed that Tokyo has enough plutonium to theoretically produce thousands of nuclear warheads.&nbsp;In an article published by TASS, Zhang said Japan had 44.4 tonnes of plutonium extracted from spent nuclear fuel as of the end of 2024. He claimed the stockpile could be used to manufacture around 5,500 nuclear warheads.&nbsp;The ambassador also said Japan's spent nuclear fuel storage facilities contained another 191 tonnes of unextracted plutonium.&nbsp;The statements come as Tokyo pushes to remilitarize the country amid rising tensions in its neighbourhood with China and North Korea. Geopolitical uncertainty and US President Donald Trump's changing stance towards allies have also prompted Washington's partners to increase defence spending.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-95-killed-133-indians-among-403-still-missing-after-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787755891807">At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal</a><h3>Japan-Russia tensions deepen</h3>Relations between Russia and Japan have also come under strain following the war in Ukraine. Tensions increased further after Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited the Kuril Islands for the first time, prompting strong protests from Tokyo, which also claims the territory.&nbsp;The Kremlin released a video showing Putin on one of the four main Kuril Islands. Russian media reported that he visited a fish processing plant and was presented with caviar.&nbsp;Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi criticised Putin's visit and said it "offends the sentiments of the Japanese people and is absolutely unacceptable."&nbsp;"The Northern Territories are an inherent part of Japan's territory, both historically and under international law," Takaichi told reporters. She added that the visit "made it more difficult to restore relations in the medium to long term."&nbsp;Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi also summoned Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolai Nozdrev on Thursday to lodge a "strong protest" over Putin's visit.&nbsp;Motegi told the ambassador that Putin's visit would "have an extremely negative impact on Japan-Russia relations", according to a statement from the ministry.&nbsp;Relations between the two countries have already faced pressure following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia has warned that Japan could develop nuclear weapons within a year, citing Tokyo’s growing military capabilities and changing security posture.

Amid Japan's ongoing push for remilitarization, Russia has warned that Tokyo could develop its own nuclear weapons within a year. According to Russia's TASS news agency, Anton Kobyakov, Russian Presidential Assistant and Executive Secretary of the Organising Committee of the Eastern Economic Forum, said Japan could possess nuclear weapons within one year. "There is even talk about nuclear weapons, which Japan is capable of assembling in about a year. Prime Minister [Sanae] Takaichi’s aggressive rhetoric shows that the country’s former role in the broader framework of US regional and global strategy has changed significantly, shifting towards direct involvement," he was quoted as saying by TASS. At a memorial service marking the 81st anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in early August, Takaichi said Japan still follows its three non-nuclear principles. However, she did not make a clear commitment that the principles would continue to be maintained in the future. China also raises Japan's nuclear potential Earlier this month, China also renewed its warnings about Japan's nuclear potential. Chinese Ambassador to Russia Zhang Hanhui claimed that Tokyo has enough plutonium to theoretically produce thousands of nuclear warheads. In an article published by TASS, Zhang said Japan had 44.4 tonnes of plutonium extracted from spent nuclear fuel as of the end of 2024. He claimed the stockpile could be used to manufacture around 5,500 nuclear warheads. The ambassador also said Japan's spent nuclear fuel storage facilities contained another 191 tonnes of unextracted plutonium. The statements come as Tokyo pushes to remilitarize the country amid rising tensions in its neighbourhood with China and North Korea. Geopolitical uncertainty and US President Donald Trump's changing stance towards allies have also prompted Washington's partners to increase defence spending. Also Read: At least 95 killed, 133 Indians among 403 still missing after flash floods in Nepal Japan-Russia tensions deepen Relations between Russia and Japan have also come under strain following the war in Ukraine. Tensions increased further after Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited the Kuril Islands for the first time, prompting strong protests from Tokyo, which also claims the territory. The Kremlin released a video showing Putin on one of the four main Kuril Islands. Russian media reported that he visited a fish processing plant and was presented with caviar. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi criticised Putin's visit and said it "offends the sentiments of the Japanese people and is absolutely unacceptable." "The Northern Territories are an inherent part of Japan's territory, both historically and under international law," Takaichi told reporters. She added that the visit "made it more difficult to restore relations in the medium to long term." Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi also summoned Russian Ambassador to Japan Nikolai Nozdrev on Thursday to lodge a "strong protest" over Putin's visit. Motegi told the ambassador that Putin's visit would "have an extremely negative impact on Japan-Russia relations", according to a statement from the ministry. Relations between the two countries have already faced pressure following Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

Russia has warned that Japan could develop nuclear weapons within a year, citing Tokyo’s growing military capabilities and changing security posture.

Japan to go nuclear? Russia warns Tokyo could get nukes within a year

The Nepal flash flood ⁠death ⁠toll started rising as rescue operations progressed and reached 160, with hundreds of tourists and locals still missing hours after the tragedy struck ⁠the Himalayan border region of Nepal and Tibet at 9 am on Wednesday. Search and rescue teams have been deployed across the affected areas, though inclement weather and disruptions in communications made search-and-rescue operations difficult.&nbsp;The number of missing tourists has gone up to 579, according to the latest figures confirmed by Nepali police.&nbsp;Of the missing tourists, 466 are foreign nationals from 28 different countries.&nbsp;One hundred and thirteen of the missing tourists are Nepalese, 54 are from the US, and the number of missing UK nationals remains at 33 people.&nbsp;Earlier, Nepal Tourism Board had said that 403 people are still missing, including 61 Nepalese people and 341 foreign nationals. The missing foreign nationals included 133 from India, 47 from the US, and 33 from the UK, it added.&nbsp;Prime Minister Balendra Shah said in a social media post that the entire nation is shocked and deeply distressed by the loss of life and damage to property in the sudden and massive disaster.&nbsp;He said the government immediately mobilised all its resources for rescue operations without delay.&nbsp;<h2>Riverside settlements in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts hardest hit&nbsp;</h2>&nbsp;The flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River swept through settlements across Rasuwa and neighbouring districts.&nbsp;Riverside settlements in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts are hit the hardest. “Entire settlements have been decimated, while banks, bridges, and markets have incurred major damages,” said Krishna Prasad Humagain, Nuwakot’s assistant chief district officer.“Dozens of concrete bridges have been swept away. There has never been this much damage in history,” the officer added.&nbsp;The flood has left 60 people associated with the 20-megawatt Langtang Khola Hydropower Project out of contact.Twenty-five engineers, drivers, and kitchen staff and 35 workers who were inside a tunnel have been out of contact since morning, said project promoter Bijay Mohan Bhattarai Bhattarai.“We have not been able to contact them so far,” he said, adding that the hydropower project had been completed and was scheduled to undergo testing in two days.Meanwhile, 15 employees of the Rasuwa Customs Office in Timure are also missing, said Rajendra Dhungana, chief of the customs office.&nbsp;<h2>Nepal asks India and China to help with rescue efforts</h2>&nbsp;The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 am local time and swept away villages, roads, and hydropower projects, officials said.“We have asked both India and China to help us with the rescue efforts,” said Sasmit Pokharel, a spokesperson for the Nepali government.&nbsp;Dozens of multistoried buildings, trucks, and vans were buried under vast quantities of mud in the district of Nuwakot, one of the worst-affected areas. Officials warned residents in several of Nepal’s districts and asked them to stay away from the banks of the Bhotekoshi, Trishuli, and Narayani rivers.&nbsp;<h2>‘Most missing tourists from India, on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash’</h2>&nbsp;Nepal tourism board officials said most of the missing tourists were from India and the Indian diaspora on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in the Chinese autonomous region of Tibet, a sacred site for Hindus.South Korean government officials said their citizens working on building a hydropower plant in Nepal were among those reported missing.Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry also said its embassy in Kathmandu has received reports from travel agencies that they had lost contact with 11 Malaysians believed to be in the Rasuwa district, which was hit hard by the floods.&nbsp;Home Minister Sudan Gurung and Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel have been coordinating rescue and relief flights from the Kathmandu airport.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Three dead, 265 missing in mudslide in Tibet’s Gyirong, says China</h2>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Chinese authorities were conducting large-scale search and rescue operations in the Tibetan border area of Gyirong, according to state broadcaster CCTV.&nbsp;&nbsp;⁠At least three people ⁠have ⁠died, with 265 others missing, ⁠following a mudslide in Tibet’s ⁠Gyirong on Wednesday, China’s state broadcaster CCTV said, citing authorities’ preliminary tally. The exact number of casualties is still being verified, CCTV said. These are the ⁠first casualty figures provided for the Chinese side of the border.&nbsp;Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered authorities to step up the efforts for people missing after the mudslide, state news agency Xinhua reported. Xi also called for residents at risk to be evacuated from any area on the Chinese side.

The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 am local time and swept away villages, roads, and hydropower projects, officials said. Dozens of multistoried buildings, trucks, and vans were buried under vast quantities of mud in the district of Nuwakot, one of the worst-affected areas.

The Nepal flash flood ⁠death ⁠toll started rising as rescue operations progressed and reached 160, with hundreds of tourists and locals still missing hours after the tragedy struck ⁠the Himalayan border region of Nepal and Tibet at 9 am on Wednesday. Search and rescue teams have been deployed across the affected areas, though inclement weather and disruptions in communications made search-and-rescue operations difficult. The number of missing tourists has gone up to 579, according to the latest figures confirmed by Nepali police. Of the missing tourists, 466 are foreign nationals from 28 different countries. One hundred and thirteen of the missing tourists are Nepalese, 54 are from the US, and the number of missing UK nationals remains at 33 people. Earlier, Nepal Tourism Board had said that 403 people are still missing, including 61 Nepalese people and 341 foreign nationals. The missing foreign nationals included 133 from India, 47 from the US, and 33 from the UK, it added. Prime Minister Balendra Shah said in a social media post that the entire nation is shocked and deeply distressed by the loss of life and damage to property in the sudden and massive disaster. He said the government immediately mobilised all its resources for rescue operations without delay. Riverside settlements in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts hardest hit The flash flood in the Bhotekoshi River swept through settlements across Rasuwa and neighbouring districts. Riverside settlements in Rasuwa and Nuwakot districts are hit the hardest. “Entire settlements have been decimated, while banks, bridges, and markets have incurred major damages,” said Krishna Prasad Humagain, Nuwakot’s assistant chief district officer. “Dozens of concrete bridges have been swept away. There has never been this much damage in history,” the officer added. The flood has left 60 people associated with the 20-megawatt Langtang Khola Hydropower Project out of contact. Twenty-five engineers, drivers, and kitchen staff and 35 workers who were inside a tunnel have been out of contact since morning, said project promoter Bijay Mohan Bhattarai Bhattarai. “We have not been able to contact them so far,” he said, adding that the hydropower project had been completed and was scheduled to undergo testing in two days. Meanwhile, 15 employees of the Rasuwa Customs Office in Timure are also missing, said Rajendra Dhungana, chief of the customs office. Nepal asks India and China to help with rescue efforts The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 am local time and swept away villages, roads, and hydropower projects, officials said. “We have asked both India and China to help us with the rescue efforts,” said Sasmit Pokharel, a spokesperson for the Nepali government. Dozens of multistoried buildings, trucks, and vans were buried under vast quantities of mud in the district of Nuwakot, one of the worst-affected areas. Officials warned residents in several of Nepal’s districts and asked them to stay away from the banks of the Bhotekoshi, Trishuli, and Narayani rivers. ‘Most missing tourists from India, on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash’ Nepal tourism board officials said most of the missing tourists were from India and the Indian diaspora on pilgrimage to Mount Kailash in the Chinese autonomous region of Tibet, a sacred site for Hindus. South Korean government officials said their citizens working on building a hydropower plant in Nepal were among those reported missing. Malaysia’s Foreign Ministry also said its embassy in Kathmandu has received reports from travel agencies that they had lost contact with 11 Malaysians believed to be in the Rasuwa district, which was hit hard by the floods. Home Minister Sudan Gurung and Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Khadak Raj Paudel have been coordinating rescue and relief flights from the Kathmandu airport. Three dead, 265 missing in mudslide in Tibet’s Gyirong, says China Meanwhile, Chinese authorities were conducting large-scale search and rescue operations in the Tibetan border area of Gyirong, according to state broadcaster CCTV. ⁠At least three people ⁠have ⁠died, with 265 others missing, ⁠following a mudslide in Tibet’s ⁠Gyirong on Wednesday, China’s state broadcaster CCTV said, citing authorities’ preliminary tally. The exact number of casualties is still being verified, CCTV said. These are the ⁠first casualty figures provided for the Chinese side of the border. Chinese President Xi Jinping ordered authorities to step up the efforts for people missing after the mudslide, state news agency Xinhua reported. Xi also called for residents at risk to be evacuated from any area on the Chinese side.

The Bhotekoshi River flooded around 9 am local time and swept away villages, roads, and hydropower projects, officials said. Dozens of multistoried buildings, trucks, and vans were buried under vast quantities of mud in the district of Nuwakot, one of the worst-affected areas.

At least 160 killed, 133 Indians among 579 still missing after flash floods in Nepal

Flash flood in Nepal has claimed the lives of at least 95 people, while close to 400 are missing. The flood that hit early on Wednesday in Rasuwa, after water from Tibet surged through the Bhotekoshi River, overflowing into Nepal's Trishuli River and causing widespread flooding and extensive devastation to settlements along the river.&nbsp;Several districts downstream, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan, have been placed on high alert as officials launched search and rescue operations with the help of the Nepal Army in the affected areas. Also the main road to Kathmandu is reportedly closed.&nbsp;<h2>What caused the devastating Nepal flood?</h2>&nbsp;Preliminary information suggest that a magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Tibetan territory may have triggered an avalanche that led to the devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River.&nbsp;According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck Tibetan territory at around 8:37 am, approximately 47 kilometres north of Gosainkunda.&nbsp;While, Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority say that a glacier-inclusive flood occurred in the Lhende River due to a snow-rock landslide on the Nepal-China border about 20 kilometers northeast of the Nepal-China Rasuwagadhi border crossing.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Planet Labs को स्याटेलाइट तस्बिरको विश्लेषणका आधारमा गरिएको प्रारम्भिक अध्ययनबाट नेपाल-चीन रसुवागढी नाकाबाट करिब २० किलोमिटर उत्तरपूर्व नेपाल-चीन सिमानामा गएको हिम-चट्टान पहिरोका कारण ल्हेन्दे खोलामा गेग्य्रानसहितको बाढी आएको देखिएको छ। <a href="https://t.co/kCAo9O1Zb0">pic.twitter.com/kCAo9O1Zb0</a>&mdash; NDRRMA (@NDRRMA_Nepal) <a href="https://x.com/NDRRMA_Nepal/status/2092584620248408106?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

As sequence of events is still being assessed, authorities and experts are investigating whether the earthquake in the Tibetan territory had any role to play in the avalanche that led to the sudden release of water in Bhotekoshi River.&nbsp;Meanwhile, personnel from the Nepal army, armed police force and Nepal Police have been deployed in Rasuwa and nearby areas to help in rescue and relief operations.&nbsp;Prime Minister Belendra Shah held an emergency meeting to take stock of the situation and said "Work has started to take necessary steps in co-ordination with the medical team, scouts, and Red Cross."&nbsp;Nepal's disaster management authority has called on people living near river banks in vulnerable areas to remain alert and take precautions.&nbsp;

As sequence of events is still being assessed, authorities and experts are investigating whether the earthquake in the Tibetan territory had any role to play in the avalanche.

Flash flood in Nepal has claimed the lives of at least 95 people, while close to 400 are missing. The flood that hit early on Wednesday in Rasuwa, after water from Tibet surged through the Bhotekoshi River, overflowing into Nepal's Trishuli River and causing widespread flooding and extensive devastation to settlements along the river. Several districts downstream, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan, have been placed on high alert as officials launched search and rescue operations with the help of the Nepal Army in the affected areas. Also the main road to Kathmandu is reportedly closed. What caused the devastating Nepal flood? Preliminary information suggest that a magnitude 4.4 earthquake in Tibetan territory may have triggered an avalanche that led to the devastating flash flood in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River. According to the US Geological Survey (USGS), the earthquake struck Tibetan territory at around 8:37 am, approximately 47 kilometres north of Gosainkunda. While, Nepal’s National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Authority say that a glacier-inclusive flood occurred in the Lhende River due to a snow-rock landslide on the Nepal-China border about 20 kilometers northeast of the Nepal-China Rasuwagadhi border crossing.

As sequence of events is still being assessed, authorities and experts are investigating whether the earthquake in the Tibetan territory had any role to play in the avalanche.

Nepal flash flood: Earthquake or snow-rock landslide, what caused the devastating deluge?

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced an “Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran in August and vowed to target Iran's economic interests across the globe. He called this "the single greatest financial offensive ever" and warned of dire consequences against any companies or banks that maintain economic ties with Iran. The option is either to choose between maintaining commercial ties with Tehran and access to the US financial system.&nbsp;Washington's goals are ambitious; it wants to isolate Iran and punish countries that trade with it. It has said these sanctions will target Iran’s aviation, digital assets, gold, technology and shipping sectors, as well as 60 specific individuals and vessels. According to the Treasury Department release on Monday, there are also secondary penalties targeting ships based in or associated with countries including Singapore, Hong Kong and China.&nbsp;“Around the globe, our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone,” &nbsp;said Bessent. When asked whether these same sanctions will work for China, Bessent maintained that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions”. However, China has explicitly stated that it was opposed to "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-warns-us-iran-sanctions-tehran-fully-prepared-1787656676823">China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared'</a><h2>Will these sanctions work?</h2>Iran has been under sanctions for roughly 47 years, since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, when the US embassy in Iran was seized, and US citizens were captured to create a hostage situation. Since then, the US has imposed harsh sanctions specifically targeting Iran's oil industry. These have increased incrementally. Until the JCPOA under Barack Obama, when Iran signed a nuclear deal in 2015. But Donald Trump unilaterally walked out of the deal in 2018 and reimposed those sanctions/Historically, sanctions have failed to produce desired policy outcomes. For example, US sanctions targeting the IRGC to stop supporting proxies or to fully halt Iran's nuclear activities have failed. Further, these sanctions are like nets, not clouds. They have gaps in them by design, and Iran has spent roughly four decades finding those gaps.&nbsp;Iran has, over time, adopted ways to overcome these sanctions; it has used cryptocurrency to circumvent these long-standing sanctions from the US financial system and facilitate transactions involving the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. It has its own shadow fleet of tankers changing names and flags to evade the US Navy, moving oil through opaque arrangements; it has used the Iraqi banking system as an economic "lung" to source hard currency. Payments are done through intermediaries, front companies substituting for conventional businesses. Iran acted opportunistically, carving out ways as required, instead of colliding head-on with the US empire.Analysts suggest that these sanctions might increase the cost of war. It might secure some concessions for the US, but weak multilateral implementation is also reducing the scope of any concrete outcome. China is the largest trading partner of Iran. It bought roughly 90 per cent of Iran's exported oil, roughly 12 per cent of China's total crude imports in 2025. China has not logged a single barrel of Iranian oil import in official customs data since 2022, but Iran still raised roughly $31 billion in revenue. China works as the decisive enabler; Washington knows this. As long as China keeps buying and its banks are willing to absorb the secondary sanctions, Washington can just increase Iran's fiscal pain without securing any concrete policy outcomes.&nbsp;Washington has sanctioned small Chinese refineries but has not risked sanctioning major Chinese banks yet. If they do, the ceiling will close in on Tehran, but it might also risk a trade war with China and a potential fallout on the global economy. Iran might become more aggressive on the shipping routes in Hormuz and Bab el Mandeb. Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit Washington on September 24, 2026. This will be Xi's first visit in 11 years.&nbsp;&nbsp;

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has vowed an economic offensive against Iran, but China’s continued trade could limit its impact.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has announced an “Operation Economic Outcast" against Iran in August and vowed to target Iran's economic interests across the globe. He called this "the single greatest financial offensive ever" and warned of dire consequences against any companies or banks that maintain economic ties with Iran. The option is either to choose between maintaining commercial ties with Tehran and access to the US financial system. Washington's goals are ambitious; it wants to isolate Iran and punish countries that trade with it. It has said these sanctions will target Iran’s aviation, digital assets, gold, technology and shipping sectors, as well as 60 specific individuals and vessels. According to the Treasury Department release on Monday, there are also secondary penalties targeting ships based in or associated with countries including Singapore, Hong Kong and China. “Around the globe, our objective is to sever every economic lifeline that sustains this tyrannical regime until Tehran stands alone,” said Bessent. When asked whether these same sanctions will work for China, Bessent maintained that “no one is above the reach of US sanctions”. However, China has explicitly stated that it was opposed to "illegal unilateral sanctions" and would take "all necessary measures" to safeguard its rights. Also Read: China warns US as Iran sanctions widen; Tehran says it is 'fully prepared' Will these sanctions work? Iran has been under sanctions for roughly 47 years, since the Islamic Revolution in 1979, when the US embassy in Iran was seized, and US citizens were captured to create a hostage situation. Since then, the US has imposed harsh sanctions specifically targeting Iran's oil industry. These have increased incrementally. Until the JCPOA under Barack Obama, when Iran signed a nuclear deal in 2015. But Donald Trump unilaterally walked out of the deal in 2018 and reimposed those sanctions/ Historically, sanctions have failed to produce desired policy outcomes. For example, US sanctions targeting the IRGC to stop supporting proxies or to fully halt Iran's nuclear activities have failed. Further, these sanctions are like nets, not clouds. They have gaps in them by design, and Iran has spent roughly four decades finding those gaps. Iran has, over time, adopted ways to overcome these sanctions; it has used cryptocurrency to circumvent these long-standing sanctions from the US financial system and facilitate transactions involving the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. It has its own shadow fleet of tankers changing names and flags to evade the US Navy, moving oil through opaque arrangements; it has used the Iraqi banking system as an economic "lung" to source hard currency. Payments are done through intermediaries, front companies substituting for conventional businesses. Iran acted opportunistically, carving out ways as required, instead of colliding head-on with the US empire. Analysts suggest that these sanctions might increase the cost of war. It might secure some concessions for the US, but weak multilateral implementation is also reducing the scope of any concrete outcome. China is the largest trading partner of Iran. It bought roughly 90 per cent of Iran's exported oil, roughly 12 per cent of China's total crude imports in 2025. China has not logged a single barrel of Iranian oil import in official customs data since 2022, but Iran still raised roughly $31 billion in revenue. China works as the decisive enabler; Washington knows this. As long as China keeps buying and its banks are willing to absorb the secondary sanctions, Washington can just increase Iran's fiscal pain without securing any concrete policy outcomes. Washington has sanctioned small Chinese refineries but has not risked sanctioning major Chinese banks yet. If they do, the ceiling will close in on Tehran, but it might also risk a trade war with China and a potential fallout on the global economy. Iran might become more aggressive on the shipping routes in Hormuz and Bab el Mandeb. Chinese President Xi Jinping is scheduled to visit Washington on September 24, 2026. This will be Xi's first visit in 11 years.

US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has vowed an economic offensive against Iran, but China’s continued trade could limit its impact.

Will Trump’s new Iran sanctions work? China holds the key

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday (August 26) that Tehran and Oman had reached an agreement on sharing revenues from the Strait of Hormuz, a day after the two countries held high-level talks in Tehran.&nbsp;Revolutionary Guards spokesman Hossein Mohebi said the discussions covered the share of the waters and revenues between Iran and Oman.&nbsp;"During negotiations with Oman, some agreements were made regarding each country's share of the waters of the Strait and Iran's and Oman's shares of its revenues," Mohebi said.&nbsp;However, Mohebi accused the United States of "obstructing work" to complete the agreement.&nbsp;The announcement came a day after the foreign ministers of Iran and Oman met in Tehran. Their talks focused on a proposed temporary transit corridor through the Strait of Hormuz and a project to clear mines from the waterway.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/high-alert-in-neighbouring-states-of-up-and-bihar-after-devastating-flash-floods-in-nepal-1787747307583">High alert in neighbouring states of UP and Bihar after devastating flash floods in Nepal</a><h3>Pezeshkian rejects US sanctions pressure</h3>Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also rejected Washington's economic pressure campaign on Wednesday, saying US sanctions would not achieve their intended goal.&nbsp;"America will not achieve anything with economic pressure at this stage, just as it was unable to achieve anything in the war," Pezeshkian said, according to Iran's ISNA news agency.&nbsp;The statement came as US President Donald Trump has shifted his focus towards economic measures amid pressure at home over the impact of the conflict. Washington has expanded sanctions and warned countries of consequences if they do not join the pressure campaign.&nbsp;Iranian leaders have remained defiant and said they have a two-year plan to deal with the pressure. Iran's army also said on Wednesday that it had rebuilt or replaced all weapons systems damaged during the fighting.&nbsp;The war began after US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic on February 38 and has since spread across the Middle East. The conflict has disrupted global trade and energy security after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation. The waterway handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas shipments.&nbsp;Meanwhile, peace negotiations remain stalled. The breach of a Memorandum of Understanding between Washington and Tehran has failed to produce a diplomatic outcome to the conflict.

After weeks of negotiations, Iran and Oman reached a deal to share revenues from the Strait of Hormuz, but Tehran maintained that the waterway’s full reopening would depend on the US lifting its naval blockade and meeting other Iranian demands.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards said on Wednesday (August 26) that Tehran and Oman had reached an agreement on sharing revenues from the Strait of Hormuz, a day after the two countries held high-level talks in Tehran. Revolutionary Guards spokesman Hossein Mohebi said the discussions covered the share of the waters and revenues between Iran and Oman. "During negotiations with Oman, some agreements were made regarding each country's share of the waters of the Strait and Iran's and Oman's shares of its revenues," Mohebi said. However, Mohebi accused the United States of "obstructing work" to complete the agreement. The announcement came a day after the foreign ministers of Iran and Oman met in Tehran. Their talks focused on a proposed temporary transit corridor through the Strait of Hormuz and a project to clear mines from the waterway. Also Read: High alert in neighbouring states of UP and Bihar after devastating flash floods in Nepal Pezeshkian rejects US sanctions pressure Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian also rejected Washington's economic pressure campaign on Wednesday, saying US sanctions would not achieve their intended goal. "America will not achieve anything with economic pressure at this stage, just as it was unable to achieve anything in the war," Pezeshkian said, according to Iran's ISNA news agency. The statement came as US President Donald Trump has shifted his focus towards economic measures amid pressure at home over the impact of the conflict. Washington has expanded sanctions and warned countries of consequences if they do not join the pressure campaign. Iranian leaders have remained defiant and said they have a two-year plan to deal with the pressure. Iran's army also said on Wednesday that it had rebuilt or replaced all weapons systems damaged during the fighting. The war began after US-Israeli strikes on the Islamic Republic on February 38 and has since spread across the Middle East. The conflict has disrupted global trade and energy security after Iran closed the Strait of Hormuz in retaliation. The waterway handles nearly 20 per cent of global oil and gas shipments. Meanwhile, peace negotiations remain stalled. The breach of a Memorandum of Understanding between Washington and Tehran has failed to produce a diplomatic outcome to the conflict.

After weeks of negotiations, Iran and Oman reached a deal to share revenues from the Strait of Hormuz, but Tehran maintained that the waterway’s full reopening would depend on the US lifting its naval blockade and meeting other Iranian demands.

Iran reaches Hormuz revenue sharing deal with Oman, Pezeshkian says US sanctions cannot force Tehran

The devastating flash floods in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River that swept through Nuwakot and Dhading districts on Wednesday triggered an alert in the neighbouring states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, where authorities intensified monitoring and precautionary measures. The Bhote Koshi River is a headwater tributary of the Kosi River system, which enters northern Bihar in Supaul after flowing through Nepal.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Indian government has issued an advisory after a sudden rise in the water level of Nepal’s Trishuli river at Furke Khola, around 160 km from the Indian border, was reported amid suspected glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) activity near the Nepal-China border. The advisory said the flood wave is expected to move downstream into the Gandak River, with its intensity likely to reduce as it travels.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">VIDEO | Nepal: Flash floods wash away villages, project sites in Rasuwa district; alert issued. (Source: Third Party)<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NepalFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NepalFloods</a> (Full video available on PTI Videos - <a href="https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p">https://t.co/d8jp61yd2p</a>) <a href="https://t.co/dKMSgd757h">pic.twitter.com/dKMSgd757h</a>&mdash; Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) <a href="https://x.com/PTI_News/status/2092554516763922530?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

&nbsp;&nbsp;Meanwhile, authorities in UP and Bihar have stepped up preparations to deal with the situation that could arise due to the heavy flow of water downstream.&nbsp;Several major rivers flow from Nepal into Bihar, most notably the Gandak River (also known as the Narayani) and the Kosi River. These rivers originate in the Himalayas and Tibet before entering the Indian plains.&nbsp;<h2>Bihar issues advisory amid flood alert</h2>&nbsp;Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary held a meeting with officials over flood alert and constituted a high-level committee to continuously monitor the developing situation. Authorities in Bihar expect a surge in water flow into the Gandak River.&nbsp;“A high-level team has been constituted. The Chief Secretary and the DGP are monitoring this, and I am also holding a meeting immediately. If necessary, I will go there myself,” the CM told reporters.“The situation is being monitored in Bihar due to the flash flood in the upper catchment area of the Gandak River in Nepal and the likelihood of a sudden surge in water flow,” said the Disaster Management Department in an official statement.&nbsp;The administration also issued an advisory and urged people to remain alert without creating panic and to strictly follow official instructions.“The public should not panic, but exercise utmost caution. People living on the banks of the Gandak River and in low-lying areas should not go near the river unnecessarily. Ignore any rumours and rely only on official information issued by the administration. In case of a rise in water level or any other warning, immediately follow the instructions issued by the administration,” the advisory said.&nbsp;Authorities in Bihar’s West Champaran, East Champaran, Gopalganj and Muzaffarpur stepped up preparedness, including evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas to safer locations.&nbsp;In view of the potential flood threat in Bihar, Union Home Minister Amit Shah spoke to Bihar CM Samrat Choudhary over the phone. Shah assured the Bihar government of all possible assistance to deal with the situation. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is also being mobilised to respond to any emergency.&nbsp;<h2>UP steps up monitoring, preparedness</h2>&nbsp;Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed concern over the flood situation in Nepal and directed local authorities in vulnerable districts to remain alert.Yogi said in a post on X, “The damage caused by the devastating floods in the Bhote Koshi River in Nepal’s Rasuwa region is extremely worrying. Prayers to Lord Pashupatinath for the safety of all.”&nbsp;Chief Minister Yogi said Maharajganj and Kushinagar districts in the region bordering Nepal have been put on alert.&nbsp;“In view of the rise in water levels of the Gandak and Narayani rivers and the possibility of flooding in Uttar Pradesh’s districts of Maharajganj and Kushinagar due to its impact, instructions have been issued to the local administration to remain fully vigilant and ensure necessary preparations,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">नेपाल के रसुवा क्षेत्र में भोटेकोशी नदी में आई भीषण बाढ़ से हुई क्षति अत्यंत चिंताजनक है। भगवान पशुपतिनाथ से सभी के सकुशल होने की प्रार्थना है। इसके प्रभाव से उत्तर प्रदेश के जनपद महराजगंज और कुशीनगर में गंडक एवं नारायणी नदियों के जलस्तर में वृद्धि तथा बाढ़ की संभावना के…&mdash; Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) <a href="https://x.com/myogiadityanath/status/2092558463566262737?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Major rivers flowing from Nepal into Uttar Pradesh include the Ghaghara (Karnali), Sharda (Kali), Gandak, and Rapti. According to the Nepal Tourism Board, at least 384 travelers, including 291 foreigners and 93 Nepali nationals, are reported missing from the flood-affected area. Among foreigners, 105 are Indian nationals, the officials said.The floodwater came from the Tibetan side of the border, causing extensive damage and washing away several villages in Nepal, according to Nepali media reports. <h2>PM Modi speaks to Nepal PM Balen Shah</h2> Prime Minister Narendra Modi spoke to Nepal PM Balendra Shah and expressed condolences over the loss of lives in the devastating floods. “Spoke to Prime Minister Balendra Shah and conveyed condolences on the loss of lives due to the floods in Nepal. The people of India stand in solidarity with their sisters and brothers in Nepal at this difficult time,” PM Modi posted on X. “India is ready to provide all possible humanitarian assistance to Nepal. Our teams are coordinating closely on rescue and relief efforts,” he added.

Several major rivers flow from Nepal into Bihar, most notably the Gandak River and the Kosi River. Authorities in UP and Bihar have stepped up preparations to deal with the situation that could arise due to the heavy flow of water downstream.

The devastating flash floods in Nepal’s Bhote Koshi River that swept through Nuwakot and Dhading districts on Wednesday triggered an alert in the neighbouring states of Bihar and Uttar Pradesh in India, where authorities intensified monitoring and precautionary measures. The Bhote Koshi River is a headwater tributary of the Kosi River system, which enters northern Bihar in Supaul after flowing through Nepal. The Indian government has issued an advisory after a sudden rise in the water level of Nepal’s Trishuli river at Furke Khola, around 160 km from the Indian border, was reported amid suspected glacial lake outburst flood (GLOF) activity near the Nepal-China border. The advisory said the flood wave is expected to move downstream into the Gandak River, with its intensity likely to reduce as it travels.

Several major rivers flow from Nepal into Bihar, most notably the Gandak River and the Kosi River. Authorities in UP and Bihar have stepped up preparations to deal with the situation that could arise due to the heavy flow of water downstream.

High alert in neighbouring states of UP and Bihar after devastating flash floods in Nepal

The United Nations Human Rights Office has condemned Israel's threat to express Gazan from Palestinians areas as “outrageous” and an utter contempt for for internation human rights. Israel has told Hamas that it would intensify operations if balloons and kites are flown by bids from the besieged territory in Gaza.&nbsp;“On the threat of expulsion due to children’s kite flying, I hope we can all agree that this is outrageous,” said Ravina Shamdasani, rights office spokeswoman, at a weekly press briefing.&nbsp;In recent weeks, several kites without any incendiary device flew into southern Israeli communities. These incidents have evoked the memories of 2018, when kites and balloons with incendiary devices were launched from Gaza as a protest against the blockade in the enclave.&nbsp;Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz in a joint statement on Sunday, said, “Israel warns Hamas that if the launches toward Israel do not cease immediately”, Israeli forces “will take action to intensify targeted operations against those responsible”. They “will evacuate the population from areas from which kites, drones and balloons are launched”, it added.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-broadcaster-barron-trump-threat-us-secret-service-1787679217483">US Secret Service responds to Iran video threatening Barron Trump</a>“We continue to see unacceptable rhetoric coming from the highest level of the Israeli authorities, showing utter contempt for international human rights and humanitarian law, and advocating and inciting violence amounting to atrocity crimes,” said Shamdasani, rights office spokeswoman. She also addressed the dire humanitarian crisis within Gaza, and despite a ceasefire, Israel continues to kill children almost regularly.&nbsp;“Despite the so-called ceasefire, Palestinians are being bombed, shot at, and killed every day in Gaza,” she said.&nbsp;“The violations, suffering and misery being inflicted on Palestinians in Gaza cannot be ignored,” she added.She urged third countries to push for the implementation of the ceasefire. More than 1,280 Palestinians have been killed since the agreement took effect in October, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.

The UN Human Rights Office has condemned Israel’s threat to evacuate Palestinians from areas in Gaza where kites, drones and balloons are launched.

The United Nations Human Rights Office has condemned Israel's threat to express Gazan from Palestinians areas as “outrageous” and an utter contempt for for internation human rights. Israel has told Hamas that it would intensify operations if balloons and kites are flown by bids from the besieged territory in Gaza. “On the threat of expulsion due to children’s kite flying, I hope we can all agree that this is outrageous,” said Ravina Shamdasani, rights office spokeswoman, at a weekly press briefing. In recent weeks, several kites without any incendiary device flew into southern Israeli communities. These incidents have evoked the memories of 2018, when kites and balloons with incendiary devices were launched from Gaza as a protest against the blockade in the enclave. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz in a joint statement on Sunday, said, “Israel warns Hamas that if the launches toward Israel do not cease immediately”, Israeli forces “will take action to intensify targeted operations against those responsible”. They “will evacuate the population from areas from which kites, drones and balloons are launched”, it added. Also Read: US Secret Service responds to Iran video threatening Barron Trump “We continue to see unacceptable rhetoric coming from the highest level of the Israeli authorities, showing utter contempt for international human rights and humanitarian law, and advocating and inciting violence amounting to atrocity crimes,” said Shamdasani, rights office spokeswoman. She also addressed the dire humanitarian crisis within Gaza, and despite a ceasefire, Israel continues to kill children almost regularly. “Despite the so-called ceasefire, Palestinians are being bombed, shot at, and killed every day in Gaza,” she said. “The violations, suffering and misery being inflicted on Palestinians in Gaza cannot be ignored,” she added. She urged third countries to push for the implementation of the ceasefire. More than 1,280 Palestinians have been killed since the agreement took effect in October, according to Gaza’s Ministry of Health.

The UN Human Rights Office has condemned Israel’s threat to evacuate Palestinians from areas in Gaza where kites, drones and balloons are launched.

UN rights office condemns Israel’s threat to expel Palestinians over flying kites and balloons

The US-Israeli war against Iran is entering its seventh month, with no peace agreement in sight. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out any diplomatic solution with what he called the "savages" ruling the Islamic Republic.&nbsp;Netanyahu also backed US President Donald Trump's latest campaign of economic pressure against Tehran. Speaking at an event at an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had discussed the possibility of diplomacy with Iran during a recent meeting with Trump.&nbsp;"I doubt, however, that an agreement can be reached with that group there, with those savages."I tell you -- an agreement cannot be reached," Netanyahu said.&nbsp;Netanyahu has remained sceptical of diplomatic efforts with Iran for years. He openly opposed the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama. However, he had avoided publicly criticising Trump while the US president pursued a negotiated settlement with Tehran.&nbsp;Trump joined Netanyahu in a US-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. He later agreed to a ceasefire in April after widespread opposition to the war in the United States. The conflict had also pushed oil prices higher.&nbsp;Trump on Monday announced what he called "economic D-Day", with the aim of destroying Iran's economy. Iran has already faced years of sanctions, while Trump has shown reluctance to return to a full-scale war despite growing frustration over Tehran's refusal to accept his demands.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/15-newborns-killed-after-fire-breaks-out-in-pakistan-hospital-1787724990542">Islamabad’s District Magistrate launches probe after hospital fire kills 15 newborns, to submit report in 24 hours</a><h3>Netanyahu backs Trump's economic pressure</h3>Netanyahu welcomed Trump's latest economic pressure campaign and said he had previously discussed the approach with the US president. He described it as a "third option" and praised Trump for pursuing it "in a very, very, very strong way".&nbsp;"What President Trump did yesterday was to tighten the siege on Iran not only by tightening the siege on Iran itself, but by tightening the siege on those who aid this regime, this terrible dictatorship. This is a very important step," Netanyahu said at the event in the occupied West Bank.&nbsp;The Israeli prime minister has for years pushed for a US attack on Iran. Tehran's Shia cleric-run government supports armed groups including Hezbollah and Hamas. Hamas carried out the devastating October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

Netanyahu ruled out the possibility of a diplomatic agreement with Iran, while backing Trump’s intensified economic pressure campaign and describing the move as a key step to tighten pressure on Tehran.

The US-Israeli war against Iran is entering its seventh month, with no peace agreement in sight. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has ruled out any diplomatic solution with what he called the "savages" ruling the Islamic Republic. Netanyahu also backed US President Donald Trump's latest campaign of economic pressure against Tehran. Speaking at an event at an Israeli settlement in the occupied West Bank on Tuesday, Netanyahu said he had discussed the possibility of diplomacy with Iran during a recent meeting with Trump. "I doubt, however, that an agreement can be reached with that group there, with those savages. "I tell you -- an agreement cannot be reached," Netanyahu said. Netanyahu has remained sceptical of diplomatic efforts with Iran for years. He openly opposed the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under former US president Barack Obama. However, he had avoided publicly criticising Trump while the US president pursued a negotiated settlement with Tehran. Trump joined Netanyahu in a US-Israeli attack on Iran in late February. He later agreed to a ceasefire in April after widespread opposition to the war in the United States. The conflict had also pushed oil prices higher. Trump on Monday announced what he called "economic D-Day", with the aim of destroying Iran's economy. Iran has already faced years of sanctions, while Trump has shown reluctance to return to a full-scale war despite growing frustration over Tehran's refusal to accept his demands. Also Read: Islamabad’s District Magistrate launches probe after hospital fire kills 15 newborns, to submit report in 24 hours Netanyahu backs Trump's economic pressure Netanyahu welcomed Trump's latest economic pressure campaign and said he had previously discussed the approach with the US president. He described it as a "third option" and praised Trump for pursuing it "in a very, very, very strong way". "What President Trump did yesterday was to tighten the siege on Iran not only by tightening the siege on Iran itself, but by tightening the siege on those who aid this regime, this terrible dictatorship. This is a very important step," Netanyahu said at the event in the occupied West Bank. The Israeli prime minister has for years pushed for a US attack on Iran. Tehran's Shia cleric-run government supports armed groups including Hezbollah and Hamas. Hamas carried out the devastating October 7, 2023 attack on Israel.

Netanyahu ruled out the possibility of a diplomatic agreement with Iran, while backing Trump’s intensified economic pressure campaign and describing the move as a key step to tighten pressure on Tehran.

No Iran deal possible: Netanyahu backs Trump’s ‘economic D-Day’ campaign

Ukraine appears to be slowly losing ground in its war with Russia and has only a few months to make decisions that could change the course of the conflict, ousted Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov said. Fedorov, who was removed from his post last month, said Kyiv lacked a clear strategy for winning the four-year-old war. He also blamed corruption, political interference and a failure to adopt new technologies quickly enough.“I think that there’s now a turning point which will determine our future trajectory, but it looks as though we’re gradually, slowly losing,” Fedorov told Reuters.His assessment sharply contrasts with Kyiv’s official messaging. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office hit back, saying Fedorov had expressed a positive view of the war while serving as minister and that only his personal status had changed.<h2>Ukraine faces weapons crunch</h2>Russia continues to pound Ukrainian factories and warehouses with ballistic missiles, while Kyiv’s stocks of air-defence interceptors are running low. Russian forces are also making slow advances in the Donbas, although at a slower pace than last year. Ukraine has responded with an expanding campaign of drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, hitting military facilities and oil refineries.Fedorov argued that Kyiv must accelerate work on autonomous drones using artificial intelligence, inexpensive interceptor missiles and its own ballistic missile programme.“Technologies exist already which could completely stop the Russians, but our absence of vision ... means we do not apply them,” he said, accusing the Ukrainian state of operating at “5 per cent effectiveness.”<h2>Budget row and election call</h2>Fedorov also defended his decision to bring forward defence spending, after President Volodymyr Zelensky said it had created a $27 billion budget gap.The former minister disputed the figure and said his spending plan relied on procurement savings and international support.His call for wartime elections has further deepened his clash with Zelensky. Ukraine remains under martial law, which prevents elections.Fedorov, meanwhile, plans to pursue military technology projects and an investment fund while continuing his campaign for elections. &nbsp;

Ukraine is “gradually, slowly losing” its war with Russia, ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov warned, urging Kyiv to act within months and adopt a stronger strategy and new technologies.

Ukraine appears to be slowly losing ground in its war with Russia and has only a few months to make decisions that could change the course of the conflict, ousted Ukrainian defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov said. Fedorov, who was removed from his post last month, said Kyiv lacked a clear strategy for winning the four-year-old war. He also blamed corruption, political interference and a failure to adopt new technologies quickly enough. “I think that there’s now a turning point which will determine our future trajectory, but it looks as though we’re gradually, slowly losing,” Fedorov told Reuters. His assessment sharply contrasts with Kyiv’s official messaging. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s office hit back, saying Fedorov had expressed a positive view of the war while serving as minister and that only his personal status had changed. Ukraine faces weapons crunch Russia continues to pound Ukrainian factories and warehouses with ballistic missiles, while Kyiv’s stocks of air-defence interceptors are running low. Russian forces are also making slow advances in the Donbas, although at a slower pace than last year. Ukraine has responded with an expanding campaign of drone and missile strikes deep inside Russia, hitting military facilities and oil refineries. Fedorov argued that Kyiv must accelerate work on autonomous drones using artificial intelligence, inexpensive interceptor missiles and its own ballistic missile programme. “Technologies exist already which could completely stop the Russians, but our absence of vision ... means we do not apply them,” he said, accusing the Ukrainian state of operating at “5 per cent effectiveness.” Budget row and election call Fedorov also defended his decision to bring forward defence spending, after President Volodymyr Zelensky said it had created a $27 billion budget gap. The former minister disputed the figure and said his spending plan relied on procurement savings and international support. His call for wartime elections has further deepened his clash with Zelensky. Ukraine remains under martial law, which prevents elections. Fedorov, meanwhile, plans to pursue military technology projects and an investment fund while continuing his campaign for elections.

Ukraine is “gradually, slowly losing” its war with Russia, ousted defence minister Mykhailo Fedorov warned, urging Kyiv to act within months and adopt a stronger strategy and new technologies.

Ukraine ‘slowly losing’ war with Russia? Ousted defence minister warns Kyiv

At least eight people were killed and 291 foreign nationals are are missing after a sudden flash flood from Tibet surged through the Bhotekoshi River, overflowing into Nepal's Trishuli River and causing widespread flooding in Rasuwa district on Wednesday (Aug 26). According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the missing foreign nationals include three from the US, 17 from Malaysia, 12 from the UK, four from South Africa, one from Australia and one from the Netherlands. The nationalities of 103 others are yet to be confirmed. The flood has caused extensive devastation to settlements along the river, and has damaged at least a dozen hydropower projects. &nbsp;Nepal's mountainous <a href="https://www.asia-ngo.org/en/why-to-sow-the-future-rasuwa/">Rasuwa District</a> shares its northern boundary with the Tibet border.&nbsp;Dramatic visuals doing rounds on social media show Trishuli Bazaar bearing the full force of raging floodwaters, with houses submerged and structures collapsing as surging water swept through the area. The destruction is visible across the locality, with floodwaters inundating homes, roads and surrounding infrastructure. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, confirmed flooding was not caused by rainfall in Rasuwa despite satellite imagery showing significant rainfall on the Tibetan side.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-york-battered-by-flash-floods-as-rain-breaks-century-old-records-video-1787639926286">New York battered by flash floods as rain breaks century-old records - VIDEO</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Massive flash flood tears through Nepal as the Bhotekoshi river surges in from Tibet, leaving Rasuwa and Nuwakot devastated. Dramatic visuals from Trishuli Bazaar show the raging waters and destruction.<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NepalFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NepalFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/qgtNvX3EfB">pic.twitter.com/qgtNvX3EfB</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2092527753220485298?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Multiple downstream districts, including Rasuwa, Nuwakot, Dhading and Chitwan, have been placed on high alert as officials launched search and rescue operations with the help of the Nepal Army in the affected areas. Nepalese government sent helicopters for rescue mission as the flood swept ‌away villages in the Himalayan nation. Rasuwa assistant chief district officer Dhruva Prasad Adhikari said that the scale of the flooding was unusually large and that the two settlements had suffered significant damage. Rasuwa chief customs officer Rajendra Dhungana said that several vehicles and goods kept at the customs premises were swept away. A recently constructed bridge was also destroyed.&nbsp;Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/assam-floods-death-toll-rises-to-80-more-than-550-villages-submerged-1785473828574">Assam Floods: Death toll rises to 80, more than 550 villages submerged</a>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Bridge swept away after flash flood surges through Nepal’s Bhotekoshi River in Rasuwa . . . . .<a href="https://x.com/hashtag/NepalFloods?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NepalFloods</a> <a href="https://t.co/5l2qNtFYIs">pic.twitter.com/5l2qNtFYIs</a>&mdash; WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://x.com/WIONews/status/2092530520236392812?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the Nepal Prime Minister’s Office said that personnel from the Nepal army, armed police force and Nepal Police had been deployed in Rasuwa and nearby areas to strengthen rescue and relief operations. A high-level meeting will also be held to assess the situation and decide on further measures, according to the PM’s Office.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

At least eight people were killed and 291 foreign nationals are missing after a flash flood from Tibet surged through Nepal’s Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, devastating Rasuwa district. Trishuli Bazaar was submerged, with homes and structures damaged and hydropower projects affected.

At least eight people were killed and 291 foreign nationals are are missing after a sudden flash flood from Tibet surged through the Bhotekoshi River, overflowing into Nepal's Trishuli River and causing widespread flooding in Rasuwa district on Wednesday (Aug 26). According to the Nepal Tourism Board, the missing foreign nationals include three from the US, 17 from Malaysia, 12 from the UK, four from South Africa, one from Australia and one from the Netherlands. The nationalities of 103 others are yet to be confirmed. The flood has caused extensive devastation to settlements along the river, and has damaged at least a dozen hydropower projects. Nepal's mountainous Rasuwa District shares its northern boundary with the Tibet border. Dramatic visuals doing rounds on social media show Trishuli Bazaar bearing the full force of raging floodwaters, with houses submerged and structures collapsing as surging water swept through the area. The destruction is visible across the locality, with floodwaters inundating homes, roads and surrounding infrastructure. According to the Department of Hydrology and Meteorology, confirmed flooding was not caused by rainfall in Rasuwa despite satellite imagery showing significant rainfall on the Tibetan side. Also Read: New York battered by flash floods as rain breaks century-old records - VIDEO

At least eight people were killed and 291 foreign nationals are missing after a flash flood from Tibet surged through Nepal’s Bhotekoshi and Trishuli rivers, devastating Rasuwa district. Trishuli Bazaar was submerged, with homes and structures damaged and hydropower projects affected.

Nepal flash flood fury: 8 dead, 105 Indians missing; villages submerged, bridges swept away | VIDEO

Bangladesh is considering the purchase of Chinese J-10CE fighter jets as Dhaka pushes ahead with plans to modernise its air force, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday (Aug 25). Speaking at a news conference at the Secretariat, Rahman said the proposed deal would depend on whether the government can secure sufficient budgetary support during the current fiscal year.“If budget support is available this fiscal year, the purchase will go ahead. Otherwise, it will be deferred to the next budget,” he said.The J-10CE has gained particular attention in Dhaka following the India-Pakistan conflict. Rahman pointed to the reported combat performance of the Chinese-made fighter while explaining Bangladesh’s interest in the aircraft.The adviser also claimed that during the May 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan, a Chinese J-10 was used to down a Dassault Rafale as he drew comparisons between the fighter jets. Notably, New Delhi has consistently denied claims of any Rafale jet being downed during the four-day war.The potential purchase is part of a wider effort to upgrade Bangladesh’s military aviation capabilities. Dhaka is also looking at fourth-generation multi-role combat aircraft, attack and VIP helicopters, as well as modern unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems.Cost is another consideration for Bangladesh, with Rahman highlighting the relatively lower price of Chinese fighter aircraft compared with some Western alternatives.Earlier in June, reports indicated that Dhaka was considering buying 24 J-10CE aircraft from China, with the proposal expected to feature in discussions during Tarique Rahman’s planned visit to Beijing. A senior government official had said Bangladesh hoped to conclude an agreement by August, depending on negotiations, with each aircraft estimated to cost around $40 million, Reuters reported.The J-10CE is China’s export variant of the J-10C. It is a fourth-generation multi-role fighter designed to perform a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.For Bangladesh, the proposed acquisition would mark a significant step in reshaping its combat fleet while deepening defence ties with China. &nbsp;

Bangladesh is considering buying Chinese J-10CE fighter jets to modernise its air force, with the deal depending on budgetary support amid plans to expand its military capabilities.

Bangladesh is considering the purchase of Chinese J-10CE fighter jets as Dhaka pushes ahead with plans to modernise its air force, Prime Minister Tarique Rahman’s Adviser Zahed Ur Rahman said on Tuesday (Aug 25). Speaking at a news conference at the Secretariat, Rahman said the proposed deal would depend on whether the government can secure sufficient budgetary support during the current fiscal year. “If budget support is available this fiscal year, the purchase will go ahead. Otherwise, it will be deferred to the next budget,” he said. The J-10CE has gained particular attention in Dhaka following the India-Pakistan conflict. Rahman pointed to the reported combat performance of the Chinese-made fighter while explaining Bangladesh’s interest in the aircraft. The adviser also claimed that during the May 2025 conflict between India and Pakistan, a Chinese J-10 was used to down a Dassault Rafale as he drew comparisons between the fighter jets. Notably, New Delhi has consistently denied claims of any Rafale jet being downed during the four-day war. The potential purchase is part of a wider effort to upgrade Bangladesh’s military aviation capabilities. Dhaka is also looking at fourth-generation multi-role combat aircraft, attack and VIP helicopters, as well as modern unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems. Cost is another consideration for Bangladesh, with Rahman highlighting the relatively lower price of Chinese fighter aircraft compared with some Western alternatives. Earlier in June, reports indicated that Dhaka was considering buying 24 J-10CE aircraft from China, with the proposal expected to feature in discussions during Tarique Rahman’s planned visit to Beijing. A senior government official had said Bangladesh hoped to conclude an agreement by August, depending on negotiations, with each aircraft estimated to cost around $40 million, Reuters reported. The J-10CE is China’s export variant of the J-10C. It is a fourth-generation multi-role fighter designed to perform a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. For Bangladesh, the proposed acquisition would mark a significant step in reshaping its combat fleet while deepening defence ties with China.

Bangladesh is considering buying Chinese J-10CE fighter jets to modernise its air force, with the deal depending on budgetary support amid plans to expand its military capabilities.

Bangladesh planning to buy Chinese J-10CE fighter jets? Dhaka pushes to revamp air force

At least 15 infants were killed after a major fire erupted at the state-run hospital in Pakistan’s Islamabad on Wednesday (Aug 26). According to the Islamabad district office, the fire broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Ward at the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. At the time of the incident, the nursery was housing 16 newborns, of whom just one was rescued. Islamabad’s District Magistrate has formed a fact-finding committee to probe the fire, with the panel directed to submit its report “within 24 hours.”According to a Geo TV report, citing rescue sources, the fire started at 6:45 am after an air-conditioner compressor explosion inside the nursery at the hospital.The incident left families distraught outside the hospital. An AFP reporter at the scene saw a woman crying while a man cleared shattered glass from two broken windows. Security personnel were stationed at the hospital entrance.<h2>Pakistan leaders vow strict action</h2>In a statement, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed “profound grief and heartfelt sorrow over the tragic incident of a fire in the nursery of PIMS Hospital.”Sharif “took notice of the tragic fire incident and directed the authorities to conduct an immediate investigation.”“Such a situation with children is irreparable,” the prime minister said.“A detailed review of the causes of the incident should be conducted, those responsible should be identified, and the strictest action should be taken,” he added.Islamabad Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf said the emergency call was received shortly before 7 am local time. Rescue and police teams reached the hospital soon after and brought the fire under control, he said.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">اسلام آباد : 26 اگست 2026. وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف نے پمز ہسپتال کی نرسری میں آتشزدگی کے اندوناک واقعہ میں 14 نومولود جاں بحق ہونے پر گہرے دکھ اور دِلی افسوس کا اظہار کیا. وزیراعظم نے معصوم بچوں کے لواحقین سے دلی اظہار تعزیت کیا۔ وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف نے آتشزدگی کے افسوسناک…&mdash; Prime Minister&#39;s Office (@PakPMO) <a href="https://x.com/PakPMO/status/2092478475685024240?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/why-is-imran-khan-s-prison-treatment-causing-a-political-storm-in-pakistan-wion-decodes-1787476181869">Why is Imran Khan’s prison treatment causing a political storm in Pakistan? WION Decodes</a>In a post on X, former Pakistan prime minister Nawaz Sharif said, “Hearing the news of 14 innocent children losing their lives in the fire tragedy at Pims Hospital has left my heart deeply grieved. I share equally in the sorrow of the bereaved parents. May Allah Almighty grant patience and fortitude to the affected families. The government must identify those responsible, take strict action, and ensure measures are in place to prevent such incidents in the future.”

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Deeply saddened and heartbroken by the tragic fire at the nursery of PIMS Hospital, in which 14 newborns lost their lives. My deepest condolences to the bereaved parents and families. No words can ease the pain of losing an innocent child. May Allah Almighty grant the families…&mdash; Ishaq Dar (@MIshaqDar50) <a href="https://x.com/MIshaqDar50/status/2092517254520766932?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Deputy Prime Minister of Pakistan and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar also expressed his grief following the incident. In a post on X, he wrote, “Deeply saddened and heartbroken by the tragic fire at the nursery of PIMS Hospital, in which 14 newborns lost their lives. My deepest condolences to the bereaved parents and families. No words can ease the pain of losing an innocent child. May Allah Almighty grant the families strength and sabr in this unimaginably difficult hour.”He added, “As per Prime Minister’s orders an immediate and thorough investigation will establish the causes of this tragic incident to ensure that those found responsible face the strictest action. The safety of our children must remain paramount.”

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari also expressed his grief over the incident.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">صدرِ مملکت آصف علی زرداری کا پمز اسپتال اسلام آباد آتشزدگی کے افسوسناک واقعے پر گہرے دکھ اور افسوس کا اظہار۔ صدرِ مملکت کا آتشزدگی کے نتیجے میں نومولود بچوں کے جاں بحق ہونے پر لواحقین سے دلی تعزیت اور ہمدردی کا اظہار۔ نومولود بچوں کی المناک اموات انتہائی دلخراش اور ناقابلِ…&mdash; The President of Pakistan (@PresOfPakistan) <a href="https://x.com/PresOfPakistan/status/2092489238130700333?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 26, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.x.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The fire has once again raised questions over safety standards at large buildings in Pakistan, where deadly blazes have repeatedly exposed concerns over fire preparedness and enforcement of building regulations.In January, more than 65 people were killed in a fire at a shopping centre in Karachi. Another shopping mall blaze in the city killed at least 11 people in 2023. Pakistan has also witnessed deadly industrial fires. At least 16 workers died in a Karachi factory fire in 2021.The country’s deadliest recent industrial fire occurred in 2012, when at least 250 workers were killed after a garment factory in Karachi's Baldia Town caught fire. The building did not have a fire escape.The cause of Wednesday’s hospital fire remains under investigation.

At least 15 infants were killed after a fire broke out at the PIMS hospital nursery in Islamabad. The blaze reportedly followed an AC compressor explosion, prompting PM Shehbaz Sharif to order a probe.

At least 15 infants were killed after a major fire erupted at the state-run hospital in Pakistan’s Islamabad on Wednesday (Aug 26). According to the Islamabad district office, the fire broke out on the third floor of the Mother and Child Ward at the state-run Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences. At the time of the incident, the nursery was housing 16 newborns, of whom just one was rescued. Islamabad’s District Magistrate has formed a fact-finding committee to probe the fire, with the panel directed to submit its report “within 24 hours.” According to a Geo TV report, citing rescue sources, the fire started at 6:45 am after an air-conditioner compressor explosion inside the nursery at the hospital. The incident left families distraught outside the hospital. An AFP reporter at the scene saw a woman crying while a man cleared shattered glass from two broken windows. Security personnel were stationed at the hospital entrance. Pakistan leaders vow strict action In a statement, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed “profound grief and heartfelt sorrow over the tragic incident of a fire in the nursery of PIMS Hospital.” Sharif “took notice of the tragic fire incident and directed the authorities to conduct an immediate investigation.” “Such a situation with children is irreparable,” the prime minister said. “A detailed review of the causes of the incident should be conducted, those responsible should be identified, and the strictest action should be taken,” he added. Islamabad Chief Commissioner Sohail Ashraf said the emergency call was received shortly before 7 am local time. Rescue and police teams reached the hospital soon after and brought the fire under control, he said.

At least 15 infants were killed after a fire broke out at the PIMS hospital nursery in Islamabad. The blaze reportedly followed an AC compressor explosion, prompting PM Shehbaz Sharif to order a probe.

Islamabad’s District Magistrate launches probe after hospital fire kills 15 newborns, to submit report in 24 hours

Scientists have found an ancient landscape beneath Australia’s Great Barrier Reef that now stands frozen in time. It comprises rivers, lakes, estuaries, and beaches, all of which were mapped in great detail. The researchers discovered it during a 24-day voyage across the coast of Queensland, Australia. This place was inhabited by indigenous people nearly 65,000 years ago, but started submerging 7,000 years ago.&nbsp;Helen Bostock, chief scientist for the voyage, said, "First Nations people arrived in Australia over 65,000 years ago when sea levels were 80 meters below present day. At that time, the Great Barrier Reef area was a vast coastal plain bordered by towering forests that stretched inland."&nbsp;The team undertook the voyage on a ship named Investigator. Darumbal Traditional Owners of Sea Country and the Woppaburra people helped design the voyage. The sonar system on board the vessel found the landscape deep in the sea. Using the data and combining it with the cultural knowledge of the Aboriginal people helped recreate the history of his sunken landscape.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/trending/dark-oxygen-13-000ft-inside-the-ocean-offers-clues-on-life-in-the-solar-system-1758277151383">13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist</a>&nbsp;“Our research has revealed submerged rivers, lakes, estuaries, and beaches in stunning detail that helps tell the story of the First Nations people who lived on this land in times past,” Bostock said.<h2>Reconstructing the history of the sunken landscape</h2>The researchers will next reconstruct the climate of this time, sea level rise, vegetation, and evolution of the southern Great Barrier Reef. During the voyage, they collected more than 20 sediment cores from the seabed to check for fossils, which will reveal what the place looked like thousands of years ago. "Seafloor sediments act like time capsules and allow us to reconstruct the history of the region... and connect this with the cultural stories of the Darumbal people and Woppaburra people," Bostock said.Also Read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/scientists-discover-world-s-largest-whale-graveyard-hidden-7km-beneath-the-indian-ocean-1781170611094">Scientists discover world's largest 'whale graveyard' hidden 7km beneath the Indian Ocean</a>&nbsp;Besides reconstructing the journey of indigenous people, researchers will also use the data to study ocean conditions and predict how future changes might impact the reef. "“By weaving together modern science and traditional knowledge systems, we have a much greater understanding of the story of the southern Great Barrier Reef," Bostock added. &nbsp;

A discovery from 7,000 years ago under the Great Barrier Reef has revealed an entire landscape complete with rivers, lakes, and beaches, all still standing exactly the same. Scientists will now reconstruct the history of this place. 

Scientists have found an ancient landscape beneath Australia’s Great Barrier Reef that now stands frozen in time. It comprises rivers, lakes, estuaries, and beaches, all of which were mapped in great detail. The researchers discovered it during a 24-day voyage across the coast of Queensland, Australia. This place was inhabited by indigenous people nearly 65,000 years ago, but started submerging 7,000 years ago. Helen Bostock, chief scientist for the voyage, said, "First Nations people arrived in Australia over 65,000 years ago when sea levels were 80 meters below present day. At that time, the Great Barrier Reef area was a vast coastal plain bordered by towering forests that stretched inland." The team undertook the voyage on a ship named Investigator. Darumbal Traditional Owners of Sea Country and the Woppaburra people helped design the voyage. The sonar system on board the vessel found the landscape deep in the sea. Using the data and combining it with the cultural knowledge of the Aboriginal people helped recreate the history of his sunken landscape. Also Read: 13,000ft-deep secret: Scientists discover oxygen in the darkest region where it shouldn't exist “Our research has revealed submerged rivers, lakes, estuaries, and beaches in stunning detail that helps tell the story of the First Nations people who lived on this land in times past,” Bostock said. Reconstructing the history of the sunken landscape The researchers will next reconstruct the climate of this time, sea level rise, vegetation, and evolution of the southern Great Barrier Reef. During the voyage, they collected more than 20 sediment cores from the seabed to check for fossils, which will reveal what the place looked like thousands of years ago. "Seafloor sediments act like time capsules and allow us to reconstruct the history of the region... and connect this with the cultural stories of the Darumbal people and Woppaburra people," Bostock said. Also Read: Scientists discover world's largest 'whale graveyard' hidden 7km beneath the Indian Ocean Besides reconstructing the journey of indigenous people, researchers will also use the data to study ocean conditions and predict how future changes might impact the reef. "“By weaving together modern science and traditional knowledge systems, we have a much greater understanding of the story of the southern Great Barrier Reef," Bostock added.

A discovery from 7,000 years ago under the Great Barrier Reef has revealed an entire landscape complete with rivers, lakes, and beaches, all still standing exactly the same. Scientists will now reconstruct the history of this place.&nbsp;

Sunken land inhabited 65,000 years ago discovered under Australia's Great Barrier Reef

An electrician got stuck inside a stop sign 130 feet in the air for six hours after the telescopic boom lift stopped working. The incident happened in Wilmington, Illinois, in July. AJ Gow started to lose hope of getting down and has now revealed that he sent goodbye messages to his family. Talking to WABC News, he said that it started getting extremely hot inside the sign. He told his fellow worker to get him down somehow, but the rescue proved more difficult than he had anticipated.&nbsp;Gow said that it was an extremely hot day and the wind wasn't blowing either. So he sent his co-worker down to get some water and a battery-powered fan. However, when he tried to ascend again, the lift did not work. His colleague tried fixing the list but nothing worked. Gow said it was 2 pm, with the temperature touching 30 degrees Celsius. With “temperatures inside the sign rising and four hours without water, he started to become concerned.”<h2>AJ Gow started saying goodbye to his family</h2>He said now he was genuinely scared and didn't know what would happen. He started freaking out and sent goodbye messages to his family. "God forbid if something were to actually happen — it was my final words. So essentially a goodbye without saying goodbye," he told the outlet.&nbsp;The local fire department reached the scene to rescue him, but there was another problem. While the sign was 130 feet high, the ladder only reached a height of 100 feet. A bigger ladder lift had to be brought in from Joliet, a city nearly 28 kilometres away. It was huge, and police had to escort it to the site. The entire process meant Gow had to spend more time inside the sign.&nbsp;The terrifying and arduous ordeal ended in a safe rescue for Gow. Deputy chief for Wilmington Fire, Todd Friddle, told People, "Although unconventional means were used to effect the rescue due to circumstances, everyone went home safe and uninjured yesterday." Gow has resumed work but now stays in the lift bucket at all times.

A man in Illinois got stuck inside a signboard at a height of 130 feet after the ladder lift stopped working. He spent hours there without water amid scorching heat. A lift had to be brought from 28 kilometres away to get him down.

An electrician got stuck inside a stop sign 130 feet in the air for six hours after the telescopic boom lift stopped working. The incident happened in Wilmington, Illinois, in July. AJ Gow started to lose hope of getting down and has now revealed that he sent goodbye messages to his family. Talking to WABC News, he said that it started getting extremely hot inside the sign. He told his fellow worker to get him down somehow, but the rescue proved more difficult than he had anticipated. Gow said that it was an extremely hot day and the wind wasn't blowing either. So he sent his co-worker down to get some water and a battery-powered fan. However, when he tried to ascend again, the lift did not work. His colleague tried fixing the list but nothing worked. Gow said it was 2 pm, with the temperature touching 30 degrees Celsius. With “temperatures inside the sign rising and four hours without water, he started to become concerned.” AJ Gow started saying goodbye to his family He said now he was genuinely scared and didn't know what would happen. He started freaking out and sent goodbye messages to his family. "God forbid if something were to actually happen — it was my final words. So essentially a goodbye without saying goodbye," he told the outlet. The local fire department reached the scene to rescue him, but there was another problem. While the sign was 130 feet high, the ladder only reached a height of 100 feet. A bigger ladder lift had to be brought in from Joliet, a city nearly 28 kilometres away. It was huge, and police had to escort it to the site. The entire process meant Gow had to spend more time inside the sign. The terrifying and arduous ordeal ended in a safe rescue for Gow. Deputy chief for Wilmington Fire, Todd Friddle, told People, "Although unconventional means were used to effect the rescue due to circumstances, everyone went home safe and uninjured yesterday." Gow has resumed work but now stays in the lift bucket at all times.

A man in Illinois got stuck inside a signboard at a height of 130 feet after the ladder lift stopped working. He spent hours there without water amid scorching heat. A lift had to be brought from 28 kilometres away to get him down.

Man stuck inside 130ft-high signboard for 6 hours started sending goodbye messages to family

CIA Director John Ratcliffe was in Moscow on Tuesday (Aug 25) for an unannounced visit, according to US media reports, in what would be the highest-level trip by a Trump administration official to Russia since January.CBS News first reported Ratcliffe's presence in the Russian capital, citing people familiar with the matter. Axios separately confirmed the visit, quoting a US official.Neither Washington nor Moscow has publicly explained why Ratcliffe travelled to Russia or who he was expected to meet.<h2>US military aircraft flew from Riga to Moscow</h2>The reported visit was accompanied by the unusual movement of a US government aircraft. Flight-tracking data showed a US military C-17 flying from Joint Base Andrews to Latvia before continuing to Moscow. The aircraft left Riga at around 05:50 GMT and arrived in Moscow at about 07:04 GMT. The same aircraft later departed Moscow after spending roughly 8.5 hours on the ground.<h2>Kremlin says no US talks planned</h2>This comes as the Kremlin said that there were contacts involving security services. Asked about the reported visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said it involved "contacts between security services", according to The Washington Post.At the same time, Peskov said Moscow had no plans to meet US administration representatives this week. "No, there are no such plans," he told reporters at a press briefing on Tuesday when asked about possible talks with US envoys.Peskov also said he had no information about the US military aircraft that landed at Moscow's Vnukovo airport.<h2>Ratcliffe visit comes as Ukraine diplomacy stalls</h2>The trip comes at a difficult moment in US-Russia relations, with American efforts to broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine showing little visible progress. Russia and Ukraine have stepped up long-range strikes against each other, while concerns have also grown in Washington and Europe over the possibility of Moscow testing NATO's resolve elsewhere.Axios reported that Washington had informed Kyiv that a senior US delegation was travelling to Moscow and had asked Ukraine to pause strikes for the duration of the visit.<h2>Rare Moscow trip by a CIA chief</h2>Ratcliffe's reported visit is particularly notable because trips by sitting CIA directors to Moscow are rare. The last known visit came in November 2021, when then-CIA director William Burns travelled to the Russian capital and warned President Vladimir Putin and senior officials against invading Ukraine. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine just weeks later.

A senior Trump administration official has made a rare and unexplained trip to Moscow as efforts to end the Ukraine war appear to be losing momentum. But why did CIA chief John Ratcliffe travel to Russia, and who did he meet there?

CIA Director John Ratcliffe was in Moscow on Tuesday (Aug 25) for an unannounced visit, according to US media reports, in what would be the highest-level trip by a Trump administration official to Russia since January. CBS News first reported Ratcliffe's presence in the Russian capital, citing people familiar with the matter. Axios separately confirmed the visit, quoting a US official. Neither Washington nor Moscow has publicly explained why Ratcliffe travelled to Russia or who he was expected to meet. US military aircraft flew from Riga to Moscow The reported visit was accompanied by the unusual movement of a US government aircraft. Flight-tracking data showed a US military C-17 flying from Joint Base Andrews to Latvia before continuing to Moscow. The aircraft left Riga at around 05:50 GMT and arrived in Moscow at about 07:04 GMT. The same aircraft later departed Moscow after spending roughly 8.5 hours on the ground. Kremlin says no US talks planned This comes as the Kremlin said that there were contacts involving security services. Asked about the reported visit, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said it involved "contacts between security services", according to The Washington Post. At the same time, Peskov said Moscow had no plans to meet US administration representatives this week. "No, there are no such plans," he told reporters at a press briefing on Tuesday when asked about possible talks with US envoys. Peskov also said he had no information about the US military aircraft that landed at Moscow's Vnukovo airport. Ratcliffe visit comes as Ukraine diplomacy stalls The trip comes at a difficult moment in US-Russia relations, with American efforts to broker an end to Russia's war in Ukraine showing little visible progress. Russia and Ukraine have stepped up long-range strikes against each other, while concerns have also grown in Washington and Europe over the possibility of Moscow testing NATO's resolve elsewhere. Axios reported that Washington had informed Kyiv that a senior US delegation was travelling to Moscow and had asked Ukraine to pause strikes for the duration of the visit. Rare Moscow trip by a CIA chief Ratcliffe's reported visit is particularly notable because trips by sitting CIA directors to Moscow are rare. The last known visit came in November 2021, when then-CIA director William Burns travelled to the Russian capital and warned President Vladimir Putin and senior officials against invading Ukraine. Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine just weeks later.

A senior Trump administration official has made a rare and unexplained trip to Moscow as efforts to end the Ukraine war appear to be losing momentum. But why did CIA chief John Ratcliffe travel to Russia, and who did he meet there?

Why was CIA chief John Ratcliffe in Moscow? Kremlin denies US talks amid reports of hush-hush visit

The Trump administration has put visa appointments on hold at US embassies and consulates around the world, as President Donald Trump pushes ahead with a sweeping immigration crackdown in his second term. The US State Department said Tuesday (Aug 25) that it had begun a global training programme for consular officers. Visa appointments will be adjusted to make room for the training, a department spokesperson said, without providing details on how long the changes would last.The training is aimed at helping officers identify applicants who could become dependent on US public benefits and ensure visa cases are reviewed “comprehensively and consistently”, according to the State Department.The move has already affected people with interviews scheduled at US diplomatic missions. The Financial Times, which first reported the development, said immigrant visa applicants had received emails informing them that their appointments were being rescheduled. New dates would be provided later.Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/us-tightens-green-card-scrutiny-indians-in-backlog-face-new-public-charge-test-1787207437983">US tightens green card scrutiny: Indians in backlog face new ‘public charge’ test</a>The latest move comes amid an intensified immigration campaign by Trump, who has made tighter border and immigration controls a central priority of his presidency. His administration has revoked visas and green cards and rejected applications on various grounds, including political views and participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations against Israel’s war in Gaza. Trump has argued that the measures are necessary to protect US national security.But the crackdown has also run into legal opposition. A US judge on Friday struck down an administration policy that had suspended immigrant visa issuance for applicants from 75 countries. The court ruled that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had exceeded his statutory authority.Human rights organisations have condemned the wider immigration campaign, accusing the administration of discriminatory enforcement and violations of free speech and due process. They have also warned of increased racial profiling targeting ethnic minorities.Trump campaigned in 2024 on stopping illegal immigration. However, his administration’s policies have also tightened the legal immigration system, including through new and expensive fees for some work visa applicants.For applicants awaiting US visas, the latest changes mean more uncertainty over when their immigration plans can move forward.

The US has paused visa appointments worldwide as the Trump administration launches consular training amid a broader immigration crackdown, leaving applicants facing delays and uncertainty.

The Trump administration has put visa appointments on hold at US embassies and consulates around the world, as President Donald Trump pushes ahead with a sweeping immigration crackdown in his second term. The US State Department said Tuesday (Aug 25) that it had begun a global training programme for consular officers. Visa appointments will be adjusted to make room for the training, a department spokesperson said, without providing details on how long the changes would last. The training is aimed at helping officers identify applicants who could become dependent on US public benefits and ensure visa cases are reviewed “comprehensively and consistently”, according to the State Department. The move has already affected people with interviews scheduled at US diplomatic missions. The Financial Times, which first reported the development, said immigrant visa applicants had received emails informing them that their appointments were being rescheduled. New dates would be provided later. Also read | US tightens green card scrutiny: Indians in backlog face new ‘public charge’ test The latest move comes amid an intensified immigration campaign by Trump, who has made tighter border and immigration controls a central priority of his presidency. His administration has revoked visas and green cards and rejected applications on various grounds, including political views and participation in pro-Palestinian demonstrations against Israel’s war in Gaza. Trump has argued that the measures are necessary to protect US national security. But the crackdown has also run into legal opposition. A US judge on Friday struck down an administration policy that had suspended immigrant visa issuance for applicants from 75 countries. The court ruled that Secretary of State Marco Rubio had exceeded his statutory authority. Human rights organisations have condemned the wider immigration campaign, accusing the administration of discriminatory enforcement and violations of free speech and due process. They have also warned of increased racial profiling targeting ethnic minorities. Trump campaigned in 2024 on stopping illegal immigration. However, his administration’s policies have also tightened the legal immigration system, including through new and expensive fees for some work visa applicants. For applicants awaiting US visas, the latest changes mean more uncertainty over when their immigration plans can move forward.

The US has paused visa appointments worldwide as the Trump administration launches consular training amid a broader immigration crackdown, leaving applicants facing delays and uncertainty.

US visa delays worldwide? Trump administration pauses appointments amid immigration crackdown

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