The United Nations is running a deficit of $230 million, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday and may run out of money by the end of October.

In a letter intended for the 37,000 employees at the U.N. secretariat and obtained by AFP, Guterres said unspecified "additional stop-gap measures" would have to be taken to ensure salaries and entitlements are paid.

"Member States have paid only 70 per cent of the total amount needed for our regular budget operations in 2019. This translates into a cash shortage of $230 million at the end of September. We run the risk of depleting our backup liquidity reserves by the end of the month," he wrote.

To cut costs, Guterres mentioned postponing conferences and meetings and reducing services, while also restricting official travel to only essential activities and taking measures to save energy.

Guterres had asked member states earlier this year to up contributions to the world body to head off cash flow problems, but they refused, a U.N. official said on condition of anonymity.

"The ultimate responsibility for our financial health lies with the Member States," Guterres said.

Not including what it pays for peacekeeping operations, the U.N.'s operating budget for 2018-2019 is close to $5.4 billion, with the United States contributing 22 per cent.

The United Nations is running a deficit of $230 million, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday and may run out of money by the end of October. In a letter intended for the 37,000 employees at the U.

The United Nations is running a deficit of $230 million, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said on Monday and may run out of money by the end of October. In a letter intended for the 37,000 employees at the U.N. secretariat and obtained by AFP, Guterres said unspecified "additional stop-gap measures" would have to be taken to ensure salaries and entitlements are paid. "Member States have paid only 70 per cent of the total amount needed for our regular budget operations in 2019. This translates into a cash shortage of $230 million at the end of September. We run the risk of depleting our backup liquidity reserves by the end of the month," he wrote. To cut costs, Guterres mentioned postponing conferences and meetings and reducing services, while also restricting official travel to only essential activities and taking measures to save energy. Guterres had asked member states earlier this year to up contributions to the world body to head off cash flow problems, but they refused, a U.N. official said on condition of anonymity. "The ultimate responsibility for our financial health lies with the Member States," Guterres said. Not including what it pays for peacekeeping operations, the U.N.'s operating budget for 2018-2019 is close to $5.4 billion, with the United States contributing 22 per cent.

United Nations may run out of money by end of the month: Secretary-General Antonio Guterres

Violence against children in Afghanistan has risen sharply over the past four years, a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/un-nuclear-watchdog-says-iran-taking-step-in-right-direction-253726">U.N.</a> report says.

From 2015 to 2018 a United Nations team studying the plight of children in war-torn <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-taliban-talks-afghanistan-slams-islamabad-india-says-closely-monitoring-development-253844">Afghanistan</a> documented 14,202 grave violations against them throughout the country, says the report published this week by the office of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

"Of serious concern, the killing and maiming of 12,599 children was verified, representing almost a third of all civilian casualties and an increase of 82 per cent in child casualties compared with the previous four years," the report says.

The extent of these violations is probably even greater, adds the report

Civilians have long paid a disproportionate price in the 18 years since a US-led force invaded Afghanistan against the Taliban, and insurgency-linked violence claimed a record number of lives generally last year with more than 3,800, according to U.N. figures released previously.

The report documents 274 cases of children being recruited to fight, 17 of sexual violence committed against them, 231 child abductions, 832 attacks on schools and 249 cases of humanitarian aid being denied.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-3-policemen-wounded-in-fight-at-police-headquaters-253489">Armed groups</a> are mainly responsible for grave violations, except in the case of sexual violence, which is often blamed on security forces, says the report.

"I am deeply disturbed by the scale, severity, and recurrence of grave violations endured by the children in Afghanistan and by the fact that they continue to bear the brunt of the armed conflict," Guterres said.

"I urge all parties to immediately cease all violations."

"I am extremely concerned about the significant increase in the number of child casualties, including those resulting from aerial operations conducted by government and pro-government forces," he added.

Violence against children in Afghanistan has risen sharply over the past four years, a U.N. report says. From 2015 to 2018 a United Nations team studying the plight of children in war-torn Afghanistan documented 14,202 grave violations against them throughout the country, says the report published this week by the office of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

Violence against children in Afghanistan has risen sharply over the past four years, a U.N. report says. From 2015 to 2018 a United Nations team studying the plight of children in war-torn Afghanistan documented 14,202 grave violations against them throughout the country, says the report published this week by the office of Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. "Of serious concern, the killing and maiming of 12,599 children was verified, representing almost a third of all civilian casualties and an increase of 82 per cent in child casualties compared with the previous four years," the report says. The extent of these violations is probably even greater, adds the report Civilians have long paid a disproportionate price in the 18 years since a US-led force invaded Afghanistan against the Taliban, and insurgency-linked violence claimed a record number of lives generally last year with more than 3,800, according to U.N. figures released previously. The report documents 274 cases of children being recruited to fight, 17 of sexual violence committed against them, 231 child abductions, 832 attacks on schools and 249 cases of humanitarian aid being denied. Armed groups are mainly responsible for grave violations, except in the case of sexual violence, which is often blamed on security forces, says the report. "I am deeply disturbed by the scale, severity, and recurrence of grave violations endured by the children in Afghanistan and by the fact that they continue to bear the brunt of the armed conflict," Guterres said. "I urge all parties to immediately cease all violations." "I am extremely concerned about the significant increase in the number of child casualties, including those resulting from aerial operations conducted by government and pro-government forces," he added.

United Nations: Violence against children in Afghanistan up sharply

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary and said that his vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the U.N.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/mahatma-gandhi-150th-anniversary-of-satyagrahas-heirloom-253166#birth-of-a-new-leader-168880">Mahatma Gandhi</a>'s birth anniversary is observed as International Day of Non-Violence by the global community.

"Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive non-violent movements that changed history. 150 years since his birth, Gandhi's philosophy is at the core of our work at the U.N. May his courage and conviction continue to inspire us on Wednesday's International Day of Non-Violence and every day, " tweeted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/dialogue-between-india-pakistan-is-an-essential-element-united-nations-secretary-general-antonio-guterres-250473">Guterres</a>.

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Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive non-violent movements that changed history. 
 
150 years since his birth, Gandhi’s philosophy is at the core of our work at the <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a>. May his courage &amp; conviction continue to inspire us on Wednesday’s International Day of Non-Violence &amp; every day.
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"His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes", Guterres said in a statement commemorating the day.

Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar town of Gujarat, Mahatma Gandhi or Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi adopted a non-violent resistance and was at the forefront of the freedom struggle against the colonial British rule with utmost patience.

This led to India finally achieving its independence in 1947.

Fondly known as Bapu, his unwavering belief in 'swaraj'&nbsp;(self-governance) and 'ahimsa'&nbsp;(violence) won him accolades across the world.

Guterres recalled that before <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/celebrating-the-mahatma-150th-birth-anniversary-of-mahatma-gandhi-253174">Mahatma Gandhi</a>'s assassination on January 1948, after the partition of India the previous year, Gandhi constantly highlighted "the gap between what we do, and what we are capable of doing".

"On this International Day, I urge each and every one of us to do everything in our power to bridge this divide as we strive to build a better future for all", concluded the U.N. Secretary-General.&nbsp;

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary and said that his vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the U.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary and said that his vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the U.N. Mahatma Gandhi's birth anniversary is observed as International Day of Non-Violence by the global community. "Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive non-violent movements that changed history. 150 years since his birth, Gandhi's philosophy is at the core of our work at the U.N. May his courage and conviction continue to inspire us on Wednesday's International Day of Non-Violence and every day, " tweeted Guterres. Mahatma Gandhi pioneered successive non-violent movements that changed history. 150 years since his birth, Gandhi’s philosophy is at the core of our work at the @UN. May his courage & conviction continue to inspire us on Wednesday’s International Day of Non-Violence & every day. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) October 2, 2019 × "His vision continues to resonate across the world, including through the work of the United Nations for mutual understanding, equality, sustainable development, the empowerment of young people, and the peaceful resolution of disputes", Guterres said in a statement commemorating the day. Born on October 2, 1869, in Porbandar town of Gujarat, Mahatma Gandhi or Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi adopted a non-violent resistance and was at the forefront of the freedom struggle against the colonial British rule with utmost patience. This led to India finally achieving its independence in 1947. Fondly known as Bapu, his unwavering belief in 'swaraj' (self-governance) and 'ahimsa' (violence) won him accolades across the world. Guterres recalled that before Mahatma Gandhi's assassination on January 1948, after the partition of India the previous year, Gandhi constantly highlighted "the gap between what we do, and what we are capable of doing". "On this International Day, I urge each and every one of us to do everything in our power to bridge this divide as we strive to build a better future for all", concluded the U.N. Secretary-General.

Gandhi pioneered non-violent movements that changed history: U.N. Secretary-General on Gandhi's 150th anniversary

World leaders paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on the 150th anniversary of his birth at a United Nations event on Tuesday, praising his lasting legacy.

Mahatma Gandhi: Global leaders celebrate his legacy at the United Nations

Who said what at United Nations climate summit

Almost 90 big companies in sectors from food to cement to telecommunications are pledging to slash their greenhouse gas emissions in a new campaign to steer multi-nationals towards a low-carbon future, organizers said on Sunday.

We Mean Business, a coalition of advocacy groups, said dozens of companies had joined the initiative in the two months leading up to a United Nations summit taking place on Monday, which aims to spur faster action on climate change.

“Now we need many more companies to join the movement, sending a clear signal that markets are shifting,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement.

The coalition was launched in June with a call to action by the United Nations, business and civil society leaders. The first 28 companies to join announced the following month. We Mean Business said 87 companies are now involved, with a total market capitalization of more than $2.3 trillion.

Some companies in the coalition have agreed to slash their carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050, including Swiss food company Nestle, French building materials company Saint-Gobain, and French cosmetics maker L'Oreal.

Others have stopped short of committing to go carbon neutral but say they will align their operations with a goal of limiting the increase in average global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius enshrined in the 2015 Paris Agreement.

This group includes Finnish telecoms company Nokia, French food group Danone and British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc, We Mean Business said.

As accelerating climate impacts from melting ice caps to sea-level rise and extreme weather outpace climate models, scientists say the world needs to halve its greenhouse gas emissions over the next decade to avoid catastrophic warming.

With fossil fuel companies still developing new oil and gas fields and many developing countries expanding coal-fired power, the coalition's pledges are minuscule relative to rising global emissions.

Some experts have questioned whether publicly traded companies committed to maximizing shareholder returns will be able to make the sweeping investments required to fight climate change. Yet many investors have been pressuring companies to act on climate risks, and chief executives also face pressure from an upsurge in youth-led activism, which mobilized millions around the world to protest on Friday.

We Mean Business believes pledges by a core of mostly European, and some North American and Asian companies, to commit to independently-verified emissions targets will prompt others to follow suit.

“These bold companies are leading the way towards a positive tipping point where 1.5°C-aligned corporate strategies are the new normal for businesses and their supply chains around the world," said Lise Kingo, chief executive of the UN Global Compact, which promotes responsible business practices.

UN chief Guterres sees the private sector as crucial to securing more ambitious pledges at Monday's Climate Action Summit in New York, which aims to boost the Paris deal before it enters a crucial implementation phase next year.

Companies such as Danish power group Orsted, Spanish energy company Iberdrola and German insurer Allianz are due to speak alongside governments at the one-day gathering, according to a draft agenda.

Almost 90 big companies in sectors from food to cement to telecommunications are pledging to slash their greenhouse gas emissions in a new campaign to steer multi-nationals towards a low-carbon future, organizers said on Sunday.

Almost 90 big companies in sectors from food to cement to telecommunications are pledging to slash their greenhouse gas emissions in a new campaign to steer multi-nationals towards a low-carbon future, organizers said on Sunday. We Mean Business, a coalition of advocacy groups, said dozens of companies had joined the initiative in the two months leading up to a United Nations summit taking place on Monday, which aims to spur faster action on climate change. “Now we need many more companies to join the movement, sending a clear signal that markets are shifting,” UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said in a statement. The coalition was launched in June with a call to action by the United Nations, business and civil society leaders. The first 28 companies to join announced the following month. We Mean Business said 87 companies are now involved, with a total market capitalization of more than $2.3 trillion. Some companies in the coalition have agreed to slash their carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050, including Swiss food company Nestle, French building materials company Saint-Gobain, and French cosmetics maker L'Oreal. Others have stopped short of committing to go carbon neutral but say they will align their operations with a goal of limiting the increase in average global temperatures to 1.5 degrees Celsius enshrined in the 2015 Paris Agreement. This group includes Finnish telecoms company Nokia, French food group Danone and British drugmaker AstraZeneca Plc, We Mean Business said. As accelerating climate impacts from melting ice caps to sea-level rise and extreme weather outpace climate models, scientists say the world needs to halve its greenhouse gas emissions over the next decade to avoid catastrophic warming. With fossil fuel companies still developing new oil and gas fields and many developing countries expanding coal-fired power, the coalition's pledges are minuscule relative to rising global emissions. Some experts have questioned whether publicly traded companies committed to maximizing shareholder returns will be able to make the sweeping investments required to fight climate change. Yet many investors have been pressuring companies to act on climate risks, and chief executives also face pressure from an upsurge in youth-led activism, which mobilized millions around the world to protest on Friday. We Mean Business believes pledges by a core of mostly European, and some North American and Asian companies, to commit to independently-verified emissions targets will prompt others to follow suit. “These bold companies are leading the way towards a positive tipping point where 1.5°C-aligned corporate strategies are the new normal for businesses and their supply chains around the world," said Lise Kingo, chief executive of the UN Global Compact, which promotes responsible business practices. UN chief Guterres sees the private sector as crucial to securing more ambitious pledges at Monday's Climate Action Summit in New York, which aims to boost the Paris deal before it enters a crucial implementation phase next year. Companies such as Danish power group Orsted, Spanish energy company Iberdrola and German insurer Allianz are due to speak alongside governments at the one-day gathering, according to a draft agenda.

90 big companies commit to slash greenhouse gas emissions ahead of UN climate summit

UN chief demands 'positive' news as countries gear for 'emergency' climate summit

UN chief calls for Indo-Pak dialogue to resolve Kashmir issue. Watch video to know more.

UN chief calls for Indo-Pak dialogue to resolve Kashmir issue

Ahead of General debate in United Nations, Secretary-General António Guterres has called for dialogue between India and Pakistan as an essential element to resolve any problem in the region. &nbsp;

Responding to a question on the situation on developments in Kashmir, Guterres said, "I go on with a clear opinion that human rights must be fully respected in the territory. And I go on with a clear opinion that dialogue between India and Pakistan is an essential element for the solution of the problem."

The Secretary-General also explained that the UN's "capacity is only related to good offices and good offices can only be implemented when parties accept it."

New Delhi has rejected any third party mediation&nbsp;and reminded that under Lahore declaration and Shimla Agreement both India and Pakistan will resolve all issues bilaterally.

On the situation of Uighurs Muslims in China, Guterres said, "I don't think anyone has been more persistent and more clear in talking to Chinese authorities about this issue than myself."

Adding further he said, "I have been doing publically much more than many world leaders."

Many western governments have been saying Uighurs are been systemically targeted by China and being sent to re-education camps while countries such as Pakistan have been silent.&nbsp;

The 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 74) opened on September 17 and the first day of high-level General Debate will be on September 24.

On Monday, UN Secretary-General will convene a Climate Summit, and the UNGA will hold a one-day high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage.

Ahead of General debate in United Nations, Secretary-General António Guterres has called for dialogue between India and Pakistan as an essential element to resolve any problem in the region.

Ahead of General debate in United Nations, Secretary-General António Guterres has called for dialogue between India and Pakistan as an essential element to resolve any problem in the region. Responding to a question on the situation on developments in Kashmir, Guterres said, "I go on with a clear opinion that human rights must be fully respected in the territory. And I go on with a clear opinion that dialogue between India and Pakistan is an essential element for the solution of the problem." The Secretary-General also explained that the UN's "capacity is only related to good offices and good offices can only be implemented when parties accept it." New Delhi has rejected any third party mediation and reminded that under Lahore declaration and Shimla Agreement both India and Pakistan will resolve all issues bilaterally. On the situation of Uighurs Muslims in China, Guterres said, "I don't think anyone has been more persistent and more clear in talking to Chinese authorities about this issue than myself." Adding further he said, "I have been doing publically much more than many world leaders." Many western governments have been saying Uighurs are been systemically targeted by China and being sent to re-education camps while countries such as Pakistan have been silent. The 74th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 74) opened on September 17 and the first day of high-level General Debate will be on September 24. On Monday, UN Secretary-General will convene a Climate Summit, and the UNGA will hold a one-day high-level meeting on Universal Health Coverage.

Dialogue between India, Pakistan essential element: United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres

A tropical storm warning was issued on Friday for the northern Bahamas, where thousands of residents are struggling to get back on track after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-storm-hits-hurricane-ravaged-bahamas-could-become-tropical-storm-249408">Hurricane Dorian left them homeless</a>.

Bahamian meteorologists said the islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco, which were the worst-hit by Dorian, were in the path of the approaching weather system.

Winds of up to 60 miles (100 kilometers) per hour were expected and heavy rainfall could bring some flooding to the already saturated islands, said Trevor Basden, director of the Department of Meteorology.

Carl Smith, a spokesman for the Bahamian National Emergency Management Agency, said the storm could have an impact on relief and recovery efforts on Grand Bahama and Abaco.

"The weather system will slow down logistics," Smith told a press conference in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. "Fuel and water remain the biggest needs in Abaco."

Herve Verhoosel, a spokesman for the UN World Food Program, said flights to Marsh Harbour, the largest town on Abaco, were being suspended because of the storm.

Smith said residents of Abaco should seek shelter.

The NEMA spokesman also said 1,300 people remain unaccounted for following Hurricane Dorian -- the same number he gave on Thursday.

He said 71 people were staying in shelters on Grand Bahama island and 2,037 in shelters in New Providence, where Nassau is located.

"We're no longer receiving large numbers of evacuees from Abaco and Grand Bahama," Smith said.

He said the authorities were reopening Grand Bahama international airport in Freeport to limited commercial traffic.

The Bahamian authorities have put the death toll from Dorian, a devastating Category 5 storm, at 50 so far.

But they have said they expect that number to rise significantly and a former prime minister, Hubert Ingraham, said this week he feared the final toll could be in the hundreds.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was to visit the Bahamas on Friday to express his "deep solidarity" with the Atlantic archipelago.

Guterres said Thursday that he wanted to encourage the international community to "increase the support to the Bahamas people and to the Bahamas government."

He also said Hurricane Dorian was a warning of the dangers of climate change.

"All this is a demonstration of what we have all been saying in the recent past," he said. "Climate change is running faster than we are and we need to have a much more ambitious approach in what we do in order to defeat climate change."

A tropical storm warning was issued on Friday for the northern Bahamas, where thousands of residents are struggling to get back on track after Hurricane Dorian left them homeless.

A tropical storm warning was issued on Friday for the northern Bahamas, where thousands of residents are struggling to get back on track after Hurricane Dorian left them homeless. Bahamian meteorologists said the islands of Grand Bahama and Abaco, which were the worst-hit by Dorian, were in the path of the approaching weather system. Winds of up to 60 miles (100 kilometers) per hour were expected and heavy rainfall could bring some flooding to the already saturated islands, said Trevor Basden, director of the Department of Meteorology. Carl Smith, a spokesman for the Bahamian National Emergency Management Agency, said the storm could have an impact on relief and recovery efforts on Grand Bahama and Abaco. "The weather system will slow down logistics," Smith told a press conference in Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. "Fuel and water remain the biggest needs in Abaco." Herve Verhoosel, a spokesman for the UN World Food Program, said flights to Marsh Harbour, the largest town on Abaco, were being suspended because of the storm. Smith said residents of Abaco should seek shelter. The NEMA spokesman also said 1,300 people remain unaccounted for following Hurricane Dorian -- the same number he gave on Thursday. He said 71 people were staying in shelters on Grand Bahama island and 2,037 in shelters in New Providence, where Nassau is located. "We're no longer receiving large numbers of evacuees from Abaco and Grand Bahama," Smith said. He said the authorities were reopening Grand Bahama international airport in Freeport to limited commercial traffic. The Bahamian authorities have put the death toll from Dorian, a devastating Category 5 storm, at 50 so far. But they have said they expect that number to rise significantly and a former prime minister, Hubert Ingraham, said this week he feared the final toll could be in the hundreds. UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres was to visit the Bahamas on Friday to express his "deep solidarity" with the Atlantic archipelago. Guterres said Thursday that he wanted to encourage the international community to "increase the support to the Bahamas people and to the Bahamas government." He also said Hurricane Dorian was a warning of the dangers of climate change. "All this is a demonstration of what we have all been saying in the recent past," he said. "Climate change is running faster than we are and we need to have a much more ambitious approach in what we do in order to defeat climate change."

Tropical storm warning issued for hurricane-hit Bahamas

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30.

“Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly. I visited New York last year, that is why this year I will not do that and will work here, in Venezuela,” Maduro said on late Thursday.

He added that Rodriguez would submit to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a letter, signed by millions of Venezuelan citizens, that condemns the US sanctions against Caracas.

Venezuela faces a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-says-national-security-advisor-restrained-him-on-venezuela-249294">US</a>-led effort to oust the government of President Maduro&nbsp;and replace him with opposition leader and self-proclaimed President Juan Guaido. The United States has also imposed comprehensive sanctions against Venezuela and frozen some of the country’s assets.

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&nbsp;

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30. “Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly.

The 74th session of the UN General Assembly will be held in New York from September 17-30. “Vice President Delcy Rodriguez and the foreign minister will attend this year’s UN General Assembly. I visited New York last year, that is why this year I will not do that and will work here, in Venezuela,” Maduro said on late Thursday. He added that Rodriguez would submit to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres a letter, signed by millions of Venezuelan citizens, that condemns the US sanctions against Caracas. Venezuela faces a US-led effort to oust the government of President Maduro and replace him with opposition leader and self-proclaimed President Juan Guaido. The United States has also imposed comprehensive sanctions against Venezuela and frozen some of the country’s assets. Watch video ×

Maduro says will not take part in 2019 session of UN General Assembly

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects.

"PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects," the Prime Minister's Office announced in a tweet.

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PM <a href="https://twitter.com/narendramodi?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@narendramodi</a> met <a href="https://twitter.com/UN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@UN</a> Secretary General Mr. <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@antonioguterres</a> on the sidelines of the <a href="https://twitter.com/G7?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@G7</a> Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. <a href="https://t.co/JuGsftQKRT">pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT</a>
— PMO India (@PMOIndia) <a href="https://twitter.com/PMOIndia/status/1165670577685876740?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 25, 2019</a></blockquote>
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At the G7 summit, Modi is expected to speak during sessions on the environment, climate, oceans, and digital transformation, besides also holding bilaterals with leaders of other countries participating in the two-day summit being held here.

The summit holds significance from India's perspective particularly for the fact that the Kashmir issue is expected to come up during Modi's interaction with the leaders of the member countries, particularly US President Donald Trump.&nbsp;

The same was also conveyed recently by a senior official from the Trump administration.

India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi met Secretary-General of the United Nations, Antonio Guterres, on the sidelines of the G7 summit hosted by the southwestern French city of Biarritz on Sunday and had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. "PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects," the Prime Minister's Office announced in a tweet. PM @narendramodi met @UN Secretary General Mr. @antonioguterres on the sidelines of the @G7 Summit. The two leaders had fruitful discussions on a wide range of subjects. pic.twitter.com/JuGsftQKRT — PMO India (@PMOIndia) August 25, 2019 × At the G7 summit, Modi is expected to speak during sessions on the environment, climate, oceans, and digital transformation, besides also holding bilaterals with leaders of other countries participating in the two-day summit being held here. The summit holds significance from India's perspective particularly for the fact that the Kashmir issue is expected to come up during Modi's interaction with the leaders of the member countries, particularly US President Donald Trump. The same was also conveyed recently by a senior official from the Trump administration. India is not a member country of the G-7, and the invitation to participate in the summit was extended by France.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi meets United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on sidelines of G7 in France

PM Modi meets United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres. To know more watch the video

PM Modi meets United Nations Chief

The United Nations on Thursday called for the protection of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/as-amazon-burns-brazils-jair-bolsonaro-tells-rest-of-world-not-to-interfere-244909">fire-ravaged Amazon rainforest</a> and said he was "deeply concerned" by the fires.&nbsp;

"In the midst of the global climate crisis, we cannot afford more damage to a major source of oxygen and biodiversity," UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Twitter.

"The Amazon must be protected."

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I’m deeply concerned by the fires in the Amazon rainforest. In the midst of the global climate crisis, we cannot afford more damage to a major source of oxygen and biodiversity. 
 
The Amazon must be protected.
— António Guterres (@antonioguterres) <a href="https://twitter.com/antonioguterres/status/1164586391629705216?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 22, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Official figures show nearly 73,000 forest fires were recorded in Brazil in the first eight months of the year -- the highest number for any year since 2013. Most were in the Amazon.

The extent of the area damaged by fires has yet to be determined, but smoke has choked Sao Paulo and several other Brazilian cities in the past week.

Meanwhile, France's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amazon-rainforest-fires-our-house-is-on-fire-says-macron-ahead-of-g7-summit-244910">President Emmanuel Macron said the wildfires were "an international crisis"</a> and called on the globe's most industrialised nations to address it at the G7 this weekend.

"Our house is on fire. Literally. The Amazon, the lung of our planet which produces 20 per cent of our oxygen is burning," Macron said on Twitter.&nbsp;

"It is an international crisis. Members of the G7, let's talk in two days about this emergency."

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Our house is burning. Literally. The Amazon rain forest - the lungs which produces 20% of our planet’s oxygen - is on fire. It is an international crisis. Members of the G7 Summit, let's discuss this emergency first order in two days! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ActForTheAmazon?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ActForTheAmazon</a> <a href="https://t.co/dogOJj9big">pic.twitter.com/dogOJj9big</a>
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That did not sit well with Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro.

"The French president's suggestion that Amazon issues be discussed at the G-7 without participation by the countries in the region evokes a colonialist mentality that is out of place in the 21st century," Bolsonaro wrote on Twitter.

Neighboring Peru, which contains much of the Amazon basin, announced it was "on alert" for wildfires spreading from the rainforest in Brazil and Bolivia.

Paraguay and Bolivia are battling separate wildfires that have devastated large areas of their rainforests.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United Nations on Thursday called for the protection of the fire-ravaged Amazon rainforest and said he was "deeply concerned" by the fires. "In the midst of the global climate crisis, we cannot afford more damage to a major source of oxygen and biodiversity," UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Twitter.

The United Nations on Thursday called for the protection of the fire-ravaged Amazon rainforest and said he was "deeply concerned" by the fires. "In the midst of the global climate crisis, we cannot afford more damage to a major source of oxygen and biodiversity," UN chief Antonio Guterres said on Twitter. "The Amazon must be protected." I’m deeply concerned by the fires in the Amazon rainforest. In the midst of the global climate crisis, we cannot afford more damage to a major source of oxygen and biodiversity. The Amazon must be protected. — António Guterres (@antonioguterres) August 22, 2019 × Official figures show nearly 73,000 forest fires were recorded in Brazil in the first eight months of the year -- the highest number for any year since 2013. Most were in the Amazon. The extent of the area damaged by fires has yet to be determined, but smoke has choked Sao Paulo and several other Brazilian cities in the past week. Meanwhile, France's President Emmanuel Macron said the wildfires were "an international crisis" and called on the globe's most industrialised nations to address it at the G7 this weekend. "Our house is on fire. Literally. The Amazon, the lung of our planet which produces 20 per cent of our oxygen is burning," Macron said on Twitter. "It is an international crisis. Members of the G7, let's talk in two days about this emergency." Our house is burning. Literally. The Amazon rain forest - the lungs which produces 20% of our planet’s oxygen - is on fire. It is an international crisis. Members of the G7 Summit, let's discuss this emergency first order in two days! #ActForTheAmazon pic.twitter.com/dogOJj9big — Emmanuel Macron (@EmmanuelMacron) August 22, 2019 × That did not sit well with Brazil's President Jair Bolsonaro. "The French president's suggestion that Amazon issues be discussed at the G-7 without participation by the countries in the region evokes a colonialist mentality that is out of place in the 21st century," Bolsonaro wrote on Twitter. Neighboring Peru, which contains much of the Amazon basin, announced it was "on alert" for wildfires spreading from the rainforest in Brazil and Bolivia. Paraguay and Bolivia are battling separate wildfires that have devastated large areas of their rainforests. (With inputs from agencies)

UN chief calls for protection of Amazon rainforest; says can't afford more damage to source of oxygen

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/over-40-dead-100-injured-as-blast-rips-through-wedding-party-in-afghanistans-kabul-243740">killed at least 63 people</a> and injuring over 180.

"The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added.

The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/afghanistan-islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-wedding-suicide-attack-in-kabul-243841">Islamic State group claimed responsibility</a> for the attack.

Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul

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According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them.

The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years.

These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports.

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the suicide attack in Afghanistan's Kabul which killed at least 63 people and injuring over 180. "The Secretary-General strongly condemns the horrific 17 August terrorist attack on a wedding ceremony in Kabul, claiming the lives of 63 people and injuring over 180," Guterres' spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement cited by media reports. The UN chief expressed "his deepest sympathies to the families of the victims and the Government and people of Afghanistan,'' the statement further added. The deadly suicide-bomb blast took place in the Darulaman area of Kabul city. The Islamic State group claimed responsibility for the attack. Watch: Islamic state claims responsibility for wedding suicide attack in Kabul According to eyewitnesses, the suicide bomber laid explosives among the wedding participants and detonated them. The blast happened in western Kabul, a predominantly Shia locality. The Shia minority has been targeted by the Taliban multiple times over the years. These attacks come at a time when the United States are discussing a peace deal in Afghanistan, a deal that involves the Taliban giving up arms.

Afghanistan: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemns Kabul attack that killed 63

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/concerned-poland-says-india-pakistan-must-resolve-kashmir-issue-through-dialogue-242711">Jammu and Kashmir(J&amp;K)</a> has decided to host investors summit from 12-14 October, NK Chaudhary, principal secretary (Commerce &amp; Industry), said on Tuesday.

"This will be the first-ever global summit to be hosted by the state," the principal secretary said, adding, "the inaugural session of the summit will be held in Srinagar on October 12."

On Monday, Northern Army Commander <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-government-needs-time-to-bring-back-normalcy-in-jammu-and-kashmir-says-supreme-court-242715">Lt Gen Ranbir Singh reviewed</a> security in the Kashmir Valley as the government kept restrictions in Kashmir while easing it somewhat during Eid.

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With the scrapping of Article 370 over a week old, the Supreme Court today refused to issue directions to the central government on a petition seeking lifting of all restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir.

The petition was filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala seeking lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels.

The government in its argument in court said it was reviewing the day-to-day situation in the new&nbsp;Union Territory.

The three-judge bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra told the petitioner, "We shall wait for the restoration of normalcy, if nothing happens you can back to the court." &nbsp;

Meanwhile, as Pakistan continued to rake up the issue in the international forum, Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. Poland currently holds the UNSC presidency for August.

In a similar move, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) President Joanna Wronecka had last week refused to comment on Pakistan's letter to the world body regarding abrogation of Article 370 by India.

Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres claiming abrogation of article 370&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir had violated the UNSC resolution.

Pakistan had earlier downgraded ties with India and suspended trade relations over the scrapping of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.&nbsp;

Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) has decided to host investors summit from 12-14 October, NK Chaudhary, principal secretary (Commerce & Industry), said on Tuesday. "This will be the first-ever global summit to be hosted by the state," the principal secretary said, adding, "the inaugural session of the summit will be held in Srinagar on October 12.

Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) has decided to host investors summit from 12-14 October, NK Chaudhary, principal secretary (Commerce & Industry), said on Tuesday. "This will be the first-ever global summit to be hosted by the state," the principal secretary said, adding, "the inaugural session of the summit will be held in Srinagar on October 12." On Monday, Northern Army Commander Lt Gen Ranbir Singh reviewed security in the Kashmir Valley as the government kept restrictions in Kashmir while easing it somewhat during Eid. With the scrapping of Article 370 over a week old, the Supreme Court today refused to issue directions to the central government on a petition seeking lifting of all restrictions in Jammu and Kashmir. The petition was filed by social activist Tehseen Poonawala seeking lifting of curfew and other restrictions including blocking of phone lines, internet and news channels. The government in its argument in court said it was reviewing the day-to-day situation in the new Union Territory. The three-judge bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra told the petitioner, "We shall wait for the restoration of normalcy, if nothing happens you can back to the court." Meanwhile, as Pakistan continued to rake up the issue in the international forum, Poland's ambassador to India Adam Burakowski said that India and Pakistan have to resolve the Kashmir issue bilaterally. Poland currently holds the UNSC presidency for August. In a similar move, the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) President Joanna Wronecka had last week refused to comment on Pakistan's letter to the world body regarding abrogation of Article 370 by India. Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mehmood Qureshi had written to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres claiming abrogation of article 370 Jammu and Kashmir had violated the UNSC resolution. Pakistan had earlier downgraded ties with India and suspended trade relations over the scrapping of Article 370 which gave special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Jammu and Kashmir to host first ever global investors summit in October: NK Chaudhary, principal secretary

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/article-370-revoked-shah-lauds-modi-for-unwavering-commitment-towards-ensuring-indias-unity-integrity-240935">New Delhi abrogated Article 370</a> in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state.

"We are following with concern the tense situation in the region...We urge all parties to exercise restraint," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters.

"Over the past few days, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/abrogation-of-article-370-india-briefs-unsc-envoys-tell-them-decision-aimed-at-improving-governance-240932">United Nations</a> Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has observed and reported an increase in military activity along the Line of Control. We are very concerned about the rise of tensions," he said.

On Monday, the BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, along with Article 35 (A) in the Rajya Sabha that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there.

The government also passed a separate bill in the Upper House proposing to divide the border state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Rattled by India's decisions, Pakistan said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps.

Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir

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Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit.

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state.

The United Nations on Monday urged both India and Pakistan to exercise restraint, saying it was concerned about the rising tensions between the two neighbours after New Delhi abrogated Article 370 in Jammu and Kashmir that granted special status to the state. "We are following with concern the tense situation in the region...We urge all parties to exercise restraint," Stephane Dujarric, the spokesperson of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres told reporters. "Over the past few days, the United Nations Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP) has observed and reported an increase in military activity along the Line of Control. We are very concerned about the rise of tensions," he said. On Monday, the BJP-led central government scrapped Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, along with Article 35 (A) in the Rajya Sabha that gave a special status to Jammu and Kashmir and barred people from the rest of the country from buying property there. The government also passed a separate bill in the Upper House proposing to divide the border state into two Union Territories -- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. Rattled by India's decisions, Pakistan said it will exercise "all possible options" to counter the steps. Watch: US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir Ahead of the landmark announcement, Kashmir has been on the edge in the wake of a massive security build-up and the state government issued an advisory to Amarnath pilgrims and tourists urging them to curtail their visit.

Article 370 revoked: United Nations urges India, Pakistan to exercise restraint

United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres is following with concern the tense situation between India and Pakistan.

US, UN keeping close watch on Jammu and Kashmir

The United States will officially withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty on Friday, clearing the way for a new arms race with Russia -&nbsp;and throwing China into the mix.

The treaty -&nbsp;concluded in 1987 by then US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev -&nbsp;limited the Cold War powers' medium-range missiles, both conventional and nuclear.

United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres called the demise of the treaty a dangerous step that "will likely heighten, not reduce, the threat posed by ballistic missiles."

"When it expires tomorrow, the world will lose an invaluable brake on nuclear war," he said on Thursday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-hit-300-billion-worth-of-chinese-goods-with-10-tariff-donald-trump-240021">US President Donald Trump's administration</a> says the treaty is effectively dead already because of Russian violations -- a charge Russia denies. The White House launched the six-month procedure for leaving the treaty on February 1.

"I think the INF Treaty has served us well, but it only works if both parties comply," new US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said recently.

"The United States will remain in compliance with all of our obligations until August 2nd -&nbsp;and after that point in time, we will continue to pursue what is in our best interest," he told lawmakers.

In response, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-gives-russian-citizenship-to-novateks-finance-chief-a-us-national-237779">Russian President Vladimir Putin</a> signed off on Moscow's participation in the INF on July 3.&nbsp;

Under the deal, missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres were eliminated.&nbsp;

That paved the way for the mothballing of Russian SS-20 missiles and American Pershing missiles deployed in Europe.

Even if European nations have expressed concerns about the consequence of a new arms race, NATO has endorsed the US position, saying Russia's 9M729 missile had violated the INF agreement.

Moscow insists the new projectile has a maximum range of 480 kilometres -- within INF parameters.

But the death of the INF treaty may suit Washington, former defence secretary Ash Carter said in early July.

"From the military point of view, not the political point of view, it's not so bad," Carter said at a conference at the Council on Foreign Relations.

"We can make good use of what we call conventional prompt strike."

On Thursday, Trump told reporters that the INF did not even come up when he talked by telephone with Putin about Russian wildfires on Wednesday.

However, he did suggest vaguely that a new treaty may be in the mix.

"Russia would like to do something on a nuclear treaty and that's ok with me. They'd like to do something and so would I," he said.

Next-generation technology

The Pentagon is thrilled that it will now be able to modernize its arsenal to counter the mounting might of China, which is looking to assert its military supremacy in Asia.

"Most of China's inventory is of intermediate-range missiles and so we need to make sure we have the capability as well to respond should we -- God forbid -- get in a fight with them one day," Esper said.

The United States has pledged not to deploy new nuclear-armed missiles in Europe. But it has made no such promise on the deployment of conventional weapons.

Advances in technology have allowed for the development of mid-range missiles that are much more precise than those made 30 years ago, explained career diplomat William Courtney, who is now a senior fellow at the nonprofit, nonpartisan Rand Corporation.

"The technology has changed so much that is makes it militarily attractive," said Courtney, an arms control expert.

For Thomas Mahnken, a professor of strategic studies at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies, the United States must now deploy medium-range conventional weapons on its islands in the Pacific and other territory controlled by its allies.

Such a move would help counter China's rise, especially in the South China Sea, where the People's Liberation Army has effectively commandeered several disputed islands.

"It is time to turn the tables," Mahnken said in a commentary published on the specialist website War on the Rocks.

"Such weapons, capable of denying China the use of littoral waters, would be a powerful deterrent to Chinese aggression."

Such a move seems to have the support of the next chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, General Mark Milley.

When asked by US senators about the imminent demise of the INF Treaty, he said he supported the deployment of conventional ground-based medium-range missiles in the Indo-Pacific region.

"Do you think those would be helpful?" one senator asked.

"I do," Milley replied.

The United States will officially withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty on Friday, clearing the way for a new arms race with Russia - and throwing China into the mix.

The United States will officially withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces (INF) Treaty on Friday, clearing the way for a new arms race with Russia - and throwing China into the mix. The treaty - concluded in 1987 by then US president Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail Gorbachev - limited the Cold War powers' medium-range missiles, both conventional and nuclear. United Nations Secretary General Antonio Guterres called the demise of the treaty a dangerous step that "will likely heighten, not reduce, the threat posed by ballistic missiles." "When it expires tomorrow, the world will lose an invaluable brake on nuclear war," he said on Thursday. US President Donald Trump's administration says the treaty is effectively dead already because of Russian violations -- a charge Russia denies. The White House launched the six-month procedure for leaving the treaty on February 1. "I think the INF Treaty has served us well, but it only works if both parties comply," new US Defense Secretary Mark Esper said recently. "The United States will remain in compliance with all of our obligations until August 2nd - and after that point in time, we will continue to pursue what is in our best interest," he told lawmakers. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed off on Moscow's participation in the INF on July 3. Under the deal, missiles with ranges of 500 to 5,500 kilometres were eliminated. That paved the way for the mothballing of Russian SS-20 missiles and American Pershing missiles deployed in Europe. Even if European nations have expressed concerns about the consequence of a new arms race, NATO has endorsed the US position, saying Russia's 9M729 missile had violated the INF agreement. Moscow insists the new projectile has a maximum range of 480 kilometres -- within INF parameters. But the death of the INF treaty may suit Washington, former defence secretary Ash Carter said in early July. "From the military point of view, not the political point of view, it's not so bad," Carter said at a conference at the Council on Foreign Relations. "We can make good use of what we call conventional prompt strike." On Thursday, Trump told reporters that the INF did not even come up when he talked by telephone with Putin about Russian wildfires on Wednesday. However, he did suggest vaguely that a new treaty may be in the mix. "Russia would like to do something on a nuclear treaty and that's ok with me. They'd like to do something and so would I," he said. Next-generation technology The Pentagon is thrilled that it will now be able to modernize its arsenal to counter the mounting might of China, which is looking to assert its military supremacy in Asia. "Most of China's inventory is of intermediate-range missiles and so we need to make sure we have the capability as well to respond should we -- God forbid -- get in a fight with them one day," Esper said. The United States has pledged not to deploy new nuclear-armed missiles in Europe. But it has made no such promise on the deployment of conventional weapons. Advances in technology have allowed for the development of mid-range missiles that are much more precise than those made 30 years ago, explained career diplomat William Courtney, who is now a senior fellow at the nonprofit, nonpartisan Rand Corporation. "The technology has changed so much that is makes it militarily attractive," said Courtney, an arms control expert. For Thomas Mahnken, a professor of strategic studies at Johns Hopkins University's School of Advanced International Studies, the United States must now deploy medium-range conventional weapons on its islands in the Pacific and other territory controlled by its allies. Such a move would help counter China's rise, especially in the South China Sea, where the People's Liberation Army has effectively commandeered several disputed islands. "It is time to turn the tables," Mahnken said in a commentary published on the specialist website War on the Rocks. "Such weapons, capable of denying China the use of littoral waters, would be a powerful deterrent to Chinese aggression." Such a move seems to have the support of the next chairman of the US joint chiefs of staff, General Mark Milley. When asked by US senators about the imminent demise of the INF Treaty, he said he supported the deployment of conventional ground-based medium-range missiles in the Indo-Pacific region. "Do you think those would be helpful?" one senator asked. "I do," Milley replied.

US pullout from INF treaty will likely heighten, not reduce threat: UN chief Guterres

Tensions in the Gulf region mounted Thursday as US President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-ditched-iran-deal-to-spite-obama-new-memo-leak-claims-235625">Donald Trump</a> said an American naval vessel shot down an Iranian drone that threatened the ship as it was entering the Strait of Hormuz.

It was the first US military engagement with Iran following a series of increasingly serious incidents.

Trump announced that the USS Boxer, an amphibious assault ship, "took defensive action" against the Iranian drone as it was "threatening the safety of the ship and the ship's crew."

The drone was "immediately destroyed&nbsp;after it approached within 1,000 yards (914 meters) of the Boxer", Trump said.

"This is the latest of many provocative and hostile actions by Iran, against vessels operating in international waters," he said.

"The United States reserves the right to defend our personnel, our facilities and interests and calls upon all nations to condemn Iran's attempts to disrupt freedom of navigation and global commerce."

Tehran's top diplomat, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-foreign-minister-javad-zarif-warns-us-says-its-playing-with-fire-236255">Mohammad Javad Zarif</a>, told reporters he had "no information about losing a drone today," as he arrived at the United Nations headquarters for a meeting with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.

The apparent confrontation came as Iran defended its detention Sunday of a "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/seized-foreign-tanker-in-strait-of-hormuz-iran-236898">foreign tanker</a>" believed to be the Panamanian-flagged vessel Riah and its 12 crew for allegedly smuggling fuel.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russia-blames-united-states-over-gulf-tanker-incident-234979">Russia blames United States over Gulf tanker incident</a>

"The vessel was en route to deliver contraband fuel received from Iranian boats to foreign ships in farther regions when it was intercepted," Revolutionary Guards' Sepahnews website said.

Watch: Iranian forces seize foreign oil tanker in Gulf

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First US military action

The drone shootdown comes after a series of low-level attacks in the region blamed on Tehran's forces, including placing limpet mines on several tankers and actions by what Washington calls Iranian proxies in Syria and Yemen.

In May the Pentagon announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and a bomber task force to waters near Iran in response to "indications of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces."

Tehran downed an American surveillance drone in June, prompting Trump to order airstrikes against Iran. But he called them off at the last minute, saying the plan was not "proportionate" and casualties would have been too high.

On July 4 Britain seized a fully loaded Iranian oil tanker near Gibraltar, allegedly headed for Syria in violation of sanctions.

Iran furiously branded the seizure "piracy, and one week later armed Iranian boats menaced a British tanker in the Gulf before they were driven off by a Royal Navy frigate.

That led to US calls for an international flotilla to escort hydrocarbon-laden vessels from Gulf oil fields through the Hormuz Strait.

US Central Command chief Kenneth McKenzie pledged Thursday to work "aggressively" with partners to ensure freedom of navigation in Gulf waters.

Broader conflict feared

The incidents have raised fears of a regional conflict involving the US and its allies in the Gulf region, through which nearly a third of the world's oil is transported.

It comes amid a threatened breakdown of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, with Washington steadily ratcheting up economically debilitating sanctions on Tehran a year after unilaterally quitting the deal.

Earlier this month Tehran purposely surpassed the deal's caps on uranium enrichment, aiming to pressure the other parties -- France, Germany, Britain, China and Russia -- to break with the US sanctions escalation and defend the economic benefits Iran was promised for agreeing to drastic limitations on its nuclear program.

On Wednesday at the United Nations in New York, Zarif accused Washington of waging "economic terrorism."&nbsp;

The "unlawful, extraterritorial" sanctions "represent the greatest threat to the achievement of sustainable development goals of Iran and many of our neighbours," he said.

Washington nevertheless announced fresh sanctions Thursday on what it called a "network" of companies in Iran, Belgium and China supplying crucial materials to Tehran's enrichment program. &nbsp;

Door open for negotiations?

Yet both sides kept open the possibility of talks. The Guardian reported Thursday that Zarif said he had offered a new deal for enhanced inspections of Iran's nuclear program if Washington agrees to remove sanctions.&nbsp;

Trump appeared to be receptive as well to negotiations.

He told reporters that the pressure on Iran had forced the country to reduce regional activities and suggested that could lead to negotiations.

"You look at them pulling back, and they're not pulling back because they love us. They're pulling back because they don't have money," Trump said.

"All we want to do is have a fair deal. The deal that was made was a bad deal... We can do something quickly or we can take our time. I'm in no rush."

Tensions in the Gulf region mounted Thursday as US President Donald Trump said an American naval vessel shot down an Iranian drone that threatened the ship as it was entering the Strait of Hormuz.

Tensions in the Gulf region mounted Thursday as US President Donald Trump said an American naval vessel shot down an Iranian drone that threatened the ship as it was entering the Strait of Hormuz. It was the first US military engagement with Iran following a series of increasingly serious incidents. Trump announced that the USS Boxer, an amphibious assault ship, "took defensive action" against the Iranian drone as it was "threatening the safety of the ship and the ship's crew." The drone was "immediately destroyed after it approached within 1,000 yards (914 meters) of the Boxer", Trump said. "This is the latest of many provocative and hostile actions by Iran, against vessels operating in international waters," he said. "The United States reserves the right to defend our personnel, our facilities and interests and calls upon all nations to condemn Iran's attempts to disrupt freedom of navigation and global commerce." Tehran's top diplomat, Mohammad Javad Zarif, told reporters he had "no information about losing a drone today," as he arrived at the United Nations headquarters for a meeting with Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. The apparent confrontation came as Iran defended its detention Sunday of a "foreign tanker" believed to be the Panamanian-flagged vessel Riah and its 12 crew for allegedly smuggling fuel. Also read: Russia blames United States over Gulf tanker incident "The vessel was en route to deliver contraband fuel received from Iranian boats to foreign ships in farther regions when it was intercepted," Revolutionary Guards' Sepahnews website said. Watch: Iranian forces seize foreign oil tanker in Gulf × First US military action The drone shootdown comes after a series of low-level attacks in the region blamed on Tehran's forces, including placing limpet mines on several tankers and actions by what Washington calls Iranian proxies in Syria and Yemen. In May the Pentagon announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group and a bomber task force to waters near Iran in response to "indications of a credible threat by Iranian regime forces." Tehran downed an American surveillance drone in June, prompting Trump to order airstrikes against Iran. But he called them off at the last minute, saying the plan was not "proportionate" and casualties would have been too high. On July 4 Britain seized a fully loaded Iranian oil tanker near Gibraltar, allegedly headed for Syria in violation of sanctions. Iran furiously branded the seizure "piracy, and one week later armed Iranian boats menaced a British tanker in the Gulf before they were driven off by a Royal Navy frigate. That led to US calls for an international flotilla to escort hydrocarbon-laden vessels from Gulf oil fields through the Hormuz Strait. US Central Command chief Kenneth McKenzie pledged Thursday to work "aggressively" with partners to ensure freedom of navigation in Gulf waters. Broader conflict feared The incidents have raised fears of a regional conflict involving the US and its allies in the Gulf region, through which nearly a third of the world's oil is transported. It comes amid a threatened breakdown of the 2015 Iran nuclear deal, with Washington steadily ratcheting up economically debilitating sanctions on Tehran a year after unilaterally quitting the deal. Earlier this month Tehran purposely surpassed the deal's caps on uranium enrichment, aiming to pressure the other parties -- France, Germany, Britain, China and Russia -- to break with the US sanctions escalation and defend the economic benefits Iran was promised for agreeing to drastic limitations on its nuclear program. On Wednesday at the United Nations in New York, Zarif accused Washington of waging "economic terrorism." The "unlawful, extraterritorial" sanctions "represent the greatest threat to the achievement of sustainable development goals of Iran and many of our neighbours," he said. Washington nevertheless announced fresh sanctions Thursday on what it called a "network" of companies in Iran, Belgium and China supplying crucial materials to Tehran's enrichment program. Door open for negotiations? Yet both sides kept open the possibility of talks. The Guardian reported Thursday that Zarif said he had offered a new deal for enhanced inspections of Iran's nuclear program if Washington agrees to remove sanctions. Trump appeared to be receptive as well to negotiations. He told reporters that the pressure on Iran had forced the country to reduce regional activities and suggested that could lead to negotiations. "You look at them pulling back, and they're not pulling back because they love us. They're pulling back because they don't have money," Trump said. "All we want to do is have a fair deal. The deal that was made was a bad deal... We can do something quickly or we can take our time. I'm in no rush."

US Navy destroyed Iranian drone in Strait of Hormuz, says Donald Trump

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday (July 12) called on the international community to provide more aid to Mozambique, where two cyclones spurred by climate change killed hundreds and wrought widespread destruction earlier this year.

United Nations chief calls for more support for cyclone-hit Mozambique

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday voiced outrage after a detention centre for migrants was hit by an air strike in Libya and called for an independent investigation.

Guterres recalled that the United Nations had shared the coordinates of the Tajoura detention centre east of Tripoli with the warring sides to ensure that civilians sheltering there were safe.

The UN chief "condemns this horrendous incident in the strongest terms," said a statement from his spokesman.

He "calls for an independent investigation of the circumstances of this incident, to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice, noting that the United Nations had provided exact coordinates of the detention centre to the parties."

At least 44 people were killed when the strike hit the centre late Tuesday and more than 130 were severely wounded, the UN said.

The UN Security Council is due to meet behind closed doors later Wednesday to discuss Libya, a divisive issue among world powers that have backed rival sides in the conflict.&nbsp;

Tensions have soared since forces loyal to commander Khalifa Haftar, who holds sway in the east of the country, launched an offensive in April to seize Tripoli, held by a UN-recognized government and various militias.

The Tripoli government has blamed Haftar for the attack on the detention centre.

Guterres renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to dialogue.&nbsp;

UN envoy Ghassan Salame separately also called for an independent investigation and warned that the attack may constitute a war crime. 
&nbsp;

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday voiced outrage after a detention centre for migrants was hit by an air strike in Libya and called for an independent investigation.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Wednesday voiced outrage after a detention centre for migrants was hit by an air strike in Libya and called for an independent investigation. Guterres recalled that the United Nations had shared the coordinates of the Tajoura detention centre east of Tripoli with the warring sides to ensure that civilians sheltering there were safe. The UN chief "condemns this horrendous incident in the strongest terms," said a statement from his spokesman. He "calls for an independent investigation of the circumstances of this incident, to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice, noting that the United Nations had provided exact coordinates of the detention centre to the parties." At least 44 people were killed when the strike hit the centre late Tuesday and more than 130 were severely wounded, the UN said. The UN Security Council is due to meet behind closed doors later Wednesday to discuss Libya, a divisive issue among world powers that have backed rival sides in the conflict. Tensions have soared since forces loyal to commander Khalifa Haftar, who holds sway in the east of the country, launched an offensive in April to seize Tripoli, held by a UN-recognized government and various militias. The Tripoli government has blamed Haftar for the attack on the detention centre. Guterres renewed his call for an immediate ceasefire and a return to dialogue. UN envoy Ghassan Salame separately also called for an independent investigation and warned that the attack may constitute a war crime.

Outraged UN chief demands probe of strike on Libya migrant centre

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Iran to stick to its commitments under<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-it-has-broken-enriched-uranium-stockpile-limit-set-by-2015-nuclear-deal-232067"> the nuclear deal </a>and address differences through a dispute mechanism, his spokesman said.&nbsp;

Iran earlier said it had exceeded a limit established under the deal on its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/iran-nuclear-deal-is-hanging-by-a-thread-224862">stockpile of low-enriched uranium.</a>&nbsp;

"It is essential that this issue, like other issues related to the implementation of the plan, be addressed through the mechanisms established in the JCPOA," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said.

Watch: Iran confirms the breach of Uranium Limit

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-dispatch-iran-exceeds-uranium-limit-in-2015-deal-232096/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The JCPOA is the formal name of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as the nuclear deal is known.

Guterres encourages Iran "to continue implementing all its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA," said Dujarric.

Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif earlier said Iran had crossed the 300 kilogram limit imposed under the nuclear deal.&nbsp;

Tehran has sought to pressure the remaining parties to save the deal by announcing that it would no longer abide by some of its commitments.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Iran to stick to its commitments under the nuclear deal and address differences through a dispute mechanism, his spokesman said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Monday urged Iran to stick to its commitments under the nuclear deal and address differences through a dispute mechanism, his spokesman said. Iran earlier said it had exceeded a limit established under the deal on its stockpile of low-enriched uranium. "It is essential that this issue, like other issues related to the implementation of the plan, be addressed through the mechanisms established in the JCPOA," UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said. Watch: Iran confirms the breach of Uranium Limit The JCPOA is the formal name of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, as the nuclear deal is known. Guterres encourages Iran "to continue implementing all its nuclear-related commitments under the JCPOA," said Dujarric. Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif earlier said Iran had crossed the 300 kilogram limit imposed under the nuclear deal. Tehran has sought to pressure the remaining parties to save the deal by announcing that it would no longer abide by some of its commitments.

United Nations chief Antonio Guterres urges Iran to stick to nuclear deal after breaching cap

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-formally-kicks-off-the-2020-reelection-campaign-at-orlando-rally-in-florida-228522">Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great'</a>

United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida.

"With every ounce of heart and might and sweat and soul, we're going to keep making America great again and then we will indeed keep America great," Trump said during the rally.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/boris-johnson-fends-off-dwindling-british-pm-rivals-in-tv-debate-228529">Boris Johnson fends off dwindling British PM rivals in TV debate</a>

Brexit figurehead Boris Johnson said Tuesday that Britain "must come out" of the EU by the new October deadline as he fended off his four remaining UK leadership race rivals in his first TV debate.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/eyeing-global-groundswell-of-hate-speech-un-launches-action-plan-to-combat-228527">Eyeing global 'groundswell' of hate speech, UN launches action plan to combat</a>

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday launched an action plan to curb rising hate speech in the world arena and warned that the world is in danger of forgetting the impact of hate speech.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-asks-new-york-times-to-disclose-sources-that-us-is-ramping-up-cyber-attacks-on-russia-228519">Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia</a>

US President Donald Trump has asked The New York Times to disclose its sources behind the report that claimed that his government was ramping up cyber attacks on Russia's electric power grid as a sign of warning to President Vladimir Putin.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-china-cooperation-factor-of-peace-and-stability-in-region-imran-khan-228523">Pakistan, China cooperation factor of peace and stability in region: Imran Khan</a>

Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that close cooperation between Pakistan and China was a factor of peace and stability in the region.

He was talking to General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who called on him.

Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great' United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida.

Donald Trump formally kicks off the 2020 reelection campaign, with vow to 'keep America great' United States President Donald Trump formally launched his 2020 re-election campaign today in front of a large crowd in Orlando, Florida. "With every ounce of heart and might and sweat and soul, we're going to keep making America great again and then we will indeed keep America great," Trump said during the rally. Boris Johnson fends off dwindling British PM rivals in TV debate Brexit figurehead Boris Johnson said Tuesday that Britain "must come out" of the EU by the new October deadline as he fended off his four remaining UK leadership race rivals in his first TV debate. Eyeing global 'groundswell' of hate speech, UN launches action plan to combat United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Tuesday launched an action plan to curb rising hate speech in the world arena and warned that the world is in danger of forgetting the impact of hate speech. Donald Trump asks New York Times to disclose sources that US is ramping up cyber attacks on Russia US President Donald Trump has asked The New York Times to disclose its sources behind the report that claimed that his government was ramping up cyber attacks on Russia's electric power grid as a sign of warning to President Vladimir Putin. Pakistan, China cooperation factor of peace and stability in region: Imran Khan Prime Minister Imran Khan said Tuesday that close cooperation between Pakistan and China was a factor of peace and stability in the region. He was talking to General Han Weiguo, Commander People's Liberation Army (PLA) Ground Forces, who called on him.

News brief: Big stories of the day