Israel decided on Friday to allow <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-urges-israel-to-bar-visit-by-us-congresswomen-ilhan-omar-rashida-tlaib-243211">US congresswoman Rashida Tlaib</a> - a critic of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians - to visit family in the occupied West Bank on humanitarian grounds after barring her from making an official visit to Israel.

Under pressure from US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israel-bars-us-democratic-lawmakers-under-pressure-from-trump-243257">he would not allow Tlaib and fellow Democrat congresswoman Ilhan Omar</a>, to make a planned trip to Israel.

However, Netanyahu said that if Tlaib submitted a request to visit family on humanitarian grounds, Israel would consider it as long as she promised not to promote a boycott against Israel.

Tlaib and Omar have voiced support for the pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement which opposes the Israeli occupation and policies toward Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Under Israeli law, BDS backers can be denied entry to Israel.

Tlaib sent a letter to Israel's Interior Ministry on Thursday requesting permission to visit relatives, including her grandmother, who is in her 90s. It could be her last opportunity to see her, she said.

"I will respect any restrictions and will not promote boycotts against Israel during my visit," Tlaib wrote in the request, which was circulated by the website Ynet and other Israeli media.

The Interior Ministry said in a statement it "decided on Friday to approve the entry of US&nbsp;Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for a humanitarian visit to her 90-year-old grandmother."

Tlaib's office could not be reached for comment, and it was not immediately clear when she might travel.

Tlaib and Omar are the first two Muslim women to be elected to Congress, and the Detroit-born Tlaib is also the first Palestinian-American congresswoman.

Both are members of their party's progressive wing and sharp critics both of Trump and Israeli policy.

Their official visit was to have included visits to the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war and which Palestinians envisage as part of an independent state along with Gaza.

Israel had initially chosen to allow the visit, but changed course on Thursday after Trump called on his ally not to let them in.

Trump has in recent months accused Tlaib, Omar and two other first-term Democratic congresswomen of colour - dubbed "the Squad" - of hostility to Israel in a barrage condemned by critics as racist and widely seen as a way to drum up votes for 2020.

Tlaib, 43, has roots in the West Bank village of Beit Ur Al-Fauqa, where her grandmother and extended family live.

The prospects of ending the occupation and resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict under the so-called two-state solution which had guided international peace-making efforts since 1993 have all but evaporated, while Israeli settlements in the territories have expanded.

The Trump administration, which is particularly close to the Netanyahu government, has touted its own peace plan but details remain vague. It fueled Palestinian anger by recognising disputed Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017.

Israel decided on Friday to allow US congresswoman Rashida Tlaib - a critic of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians - to visit family in the occupied West Bank on humanitarian grounds after barring her from making an official visit to Israel.

Israel decided on Friday to allow US congresswoman Rashida Tlaib - a critic of Israeli policy towards the Palestinians - to visit family in the occupied West Bank on humanitarian grounds after barring her from making an official visit to Israel. Under pressure from US President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Thursday he would not allow Tlaib and fellow Democrat congresswoman Ilhan Omar, to make a planned trip to Israel. However, Netanyahu said that if Tlaib submitted a request to visit family on humanitarian grounds, Israel would consider it as long as she promised not to promote a boycott against Israel. Tlaib and Omar have voiced support for the pro-Palestinian Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement which opposes the Israeli occupation and policies toward Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Under Israeli law, BDS backers can be denied entry to Israel. Tlaib sent a letter to Israel's Interior Ministry on Thursday requesting permission to visit relatives, including her grandmother, who is in her 90s. It could be her last opportunity to see her, she said. "I will respect any restrictions and will not promote boycotts against Israel during my visit," Tlaib wrote in the request, which was circulated by the website Ynet and other Israeli media. The Interior Ministry said in a statement it "decided on Friday to approve the entry of US Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib for a humanitarian visit to her 90-year-old grandmother." Tlaib's office could not be reached for comment, and it was not immediately clear when she might travel. Tlaib and Omar are the first two Muslim women to be elected to Congress, and the Detroit-born Tlaib is also the first Palestinian-American congresswoman. Both are members of their party's progressive wing and sharp critics both of Trump and Israeli policy. Their official visit was to have included visits to the occupied West Bank and East Jerusalem, territories Israel captured in the 1967 Middle East war and which Palestinians envisage as part of an independent state along with Gaza. Israel had initially chosen to allow the visit, but changed course on Thursday after Trump called on his ally not to let them in. Trump has in recent months accused Tlaib, Omar and two other first-term Democratic congresswomen of colour - dubbed "the Squad" - of hostility to Israel in a barrage condemned by critics as racist and widely seen as a way to drum up votes for 2020. Tlaib, 43, has roots in the West Bank village of Beit Ur Al-Fauqa, where her grandmother and extended family live. The prospects of ending the occupation and resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict under the so-called two-state solution which had guided international peace-making efforts since 1993 have all but evaporated, while Israeli settlements in the territories have expanded. The Trump administration, which is particularly close to the Netanyahu government, has touted its own peace plan but details remain vague. It fueled Palestinian anger by recognising disputed Jerusalem as Israel's capital in 2017.

After ban, Israel permits US Representative Rashida Tlaib to make humanitarian visit to family in West Bank

Israel bars entry to US congresswomen Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar. Watch video to know more.

Israel bars entry to US congresswomen Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar

U.S. President Donald Trump weighed in on the tensions in Hong Kong releasing a tweet Wednesday (August 14) that said, "I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?"

President Xi can quickly solve Hong Kong "problem" adding "Personal meeting?" says Donald Trump

The United States is "deeply concerned" about the Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border, a US State Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday, while warning that continued erosion of the territory's autonomy put at risk the preferential status it enjoys under US law.

The United States is "deeply concerned" about the Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border, a US State Department spokeswoman said on Wednesday, while warning that continued erosion of the territory's autonomy put at risk the preferential status it enjoys under US law. Another US official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border. The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified. "They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added: "There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy." China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises." It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents." Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony. The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention. The State Department spokeswoman reiterated the US call for all sides to refrain from violence and said it was important for the Hong Kong government to respect "freedoms of speech and peaceful assembly" and for Beijing to adhere to its commitments to allow Hong Kong a high degree of autonomy. Warning on special status She said the protests reflected "broad and legitimate concerns about the erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy" and added: " The continued erosion of Hong Kong’s autonomy puts at risk its long-established special status in international affairs." A 1992 US law affords Hong Kong preferential treatment in matters of trade and economics compared with China. Areas of special treatment include visas, law enforcement, and investment. A prominent US senator warned China on Tuesday that Hong Kong could lose its special US trade status if Beijing intervened directly to crack down on increasingly violent pro-democracy protests in the city. Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on HongKong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with. The Republican president said on Tuesday the situation in HongKong was "tricky," but hoped it would work out for everybody, including China, and "for liberty" without anyone getting hurt or killed. The US official said the PAP units seemed to have been stationed at Shenzhen to intimidate the protesters, but the protests had yet to reach a level that would compel Beijing to send them in. "I don’t think they’ve reached any tipping points," he said. While China wanted to maintain control, "nobody on the opposition side has crossed any red lines," the official said. "They haven’t called for independence. They’ve walked up to the line and caused a lot of disorder, but overnight they apologised to everybody. Both sides are carefully calculating how far and how close they come to those lines." On Tuesday, US Senator Cory Gardner, the Republican chair of the Senate's East Asia subcommittee, said the Trump administration "must make clear to Beijing that any crackdown inHong Kong will have profound consequences for China, including the imposition of US sanctions." On Wednesday, the Democratic chairman of the US House of Representatives Foreign Affairs Committee, Eliot Engel, and the panel's leading Republican, Michael McCaul, said they were concerned that 30 years after the Tiananmen Square massacre, China might again consider brutally putting down peaceful protests. "We urge China to avoid making such a mistake, which would be met with universal condemnation and swift consequences," they said in a statement. Earlier on Wednesday, the State Department issued a travel advisory urging "increased caution in Hong Kong due to civil unrest." Hong Kong has been engulfed in protests since earlier this summer. Flights resumed on Wednesday at the Hong Kong airport, one of the world's busiest, which shut down for two days after demonstrators occupied it.

US 'deeply concerned' by reports of China paramilitary movement near Hong Kong

Why Trump Opposes India's 'Developing Country' Tag At The WTO? Watch this video to know more.

Gravitas: Is Trump justified in his stance against India & China?

Tensions Escalate In Hong Kong As PLA Seems To Be Preparing For Military Crackdown. Watch this video to know more.

Gravitas: Violent clashes continue in Hong Kong

Trump Says India & China Are Taking Unfair Advantage Of 'Developing Country' Tag.

Gravitas: Trump questions 'developing' nation tag of India & China

US President Donald Trump on Thursday called on Israel to bar a looming planned visit by two US congresswomen who have expressed support for a boycott of the Jewish state.

An Israeli government official said earlier in the day that the country may prevent the visit despite having signalled previously the congresswomen would be allowed in.

Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, who is of Palestinian origin, are expected at the weekend for a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories.

"It would show great weakness if Israel allowed Rep. Omar and Rep. Tlaib to visit," Trump wrote on Twitter.

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It would show great weakness if Israel allowed Rep. Omar and Rep.Tlaib to visit. They hate Israel &amp; all Jewish people, &amp; there is nothing that can be said or done to change their minds. Minnesota and Michigan will have a hard time putting them back in office. They are a disgrace!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1162000480681287683?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"They hate Israel &amp; all Jewish people, &amp; there is nothing that can be said or done to change their minds. Minnesota and Michigan will have a hard time putting them back in office. They are a disgrace!"

Tlaib is from Michigan and Omar from Minnesota.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations on the visit on Wednesday and a final decision is being weighed, the government official said on condition of anonymity.

"There is a possibility that Israel will not allow the visit in its current proposed format," the official said, in comments prior to Trump's tweet.&nbsp;

"Professional teams and legal counsel in various government ministries are continuing to examine the decision. According to Israeli law, the authority lies with the minister of the interior."

The official, however, added that "if Congresswoman Tlaib makes a humanitarian request to visit her family, the decision on her matter will be considered favourably".

In 2017, Israel passed a law banning entry to foreigners who support boycotting the country.

The law was passed in response to a movement to boycott Israel as a means to pressure the country over its treatment of the Palestinians.

Israel sees the movement as a strategic threat and accuses it of anti-Semitism -- a claim activists deny, saying they only want to see the occupation end.

Prominent Arab Israeli parliament member Ayman Odeh said: "A state that has nothing to hide would not think of preventing the arrival of two members of Congress."

"Another desperate attempt to hide the reality to the world," he wrote on Twitter.

- Outspoken Trump critics - 
Both Omar and Tlaib have been critical of Israel's occupation of the West Bank and treatment of Palestinians.

The Democrats have also faced accusations of anti-Semitism, which they firmly deny.

The Israeli ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer, had previously signalled the two congresswomen would be allowed to visit out of respect for Washington, Israel's most important ally.

But the two are also outspoken political opponents and critics of Trump, who has a close relationship with Netanyahu.

Known as "the squad," the congresswomen -- along with two other progressive congressional allies, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ayanna Pressley -- have been in Trump's crosshairs.

He has taken aim at the four in a series of xenophobic comments, telling them to "go back" where they came from and accusing them of having "love" for America's "enemies like Al-Qaeda," among other remarks.

Ocasio-Cortez, a 29-year-old of Puerto Rican ancestry, is the youngest member of the House of Representatives, while Pressley is the first African American elected to Congress from Massachusetts.

Tlaib and Omar, who fled war-torn Somalia as a child and arrived in the United States as a refugee, are the first two Muslim women elected to Congress.&nbsp;

Tlaib is also the first woman of Palestinian descent in Congress.

Members of Congress are regular visitors to Israel and the Palestinian territories and blocking them would be a highly unusual move.&nbsp;

It would occur at a time when Jewish groups in the United States have expressed concern over whether bipartisan support for Israel in Washington is eroding.

Democratic candidates for president in the United States have openly criticised Netanyahu, who is seeking re-election in Israel on September 17 after polls earlier this year failed to yield a coalition.&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump on Thursday called on Israel to bar a looming planned visit by two US congresswomen who have expressed support for a boycott of the Jewish state.

US President Donald Trump on Thursday called on Israel to bar a looming planned visit by two US congresswomen who have expressed support for a boycott of the Jewish state. An Israeli government official said earlier in the day that the country may prevent the visit despite having signalled previously the congresswomen would be allowed in. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, who is of Palestinian origin, are expected at the weekend for a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories. "It would show great weakness if Israel allowed Rep. Omar and Rep. Tlaib to visit," Trump wrote on Twitter. It would show great weakness if Israel allowed Rep. Omar and Rep.Tlaib to visit. They hate Israel & all Jewish people, & there is nothing that can be said or done to change their minds. Minnesota and Michigan will have a hard time putting them back in office. They are a disgrace! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 15, 2019 × "They hate Israel & all Jewish people, & there is nothing that can be said or done to change their minds. Minnesota and Michigan will have a hard time putting them back in office. They are a disgrace!" Tlaib is from Michigan and Omar from Minnesota. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu held consultations on the visit on Wednesday and a final decision is being weighed, the government official said on condition of anonymity. "There is a possibility that Israel will not allow the visit in its current proposed format," the official said, in comments prior to Trump's tweet. "Professional teams and legal counsel in various government ministries are continuing to examine the decision. According to Israeli law, the authority lies with the minister of the interior." The official, however, added that "if Congresswoman Tlaib makes a humanitarian request to visit her family, the decision on her matter will be considered favourably". In 2017, Israel passed a law banning entry to foreigners who support boycotting the country. The law was passed in response to a movement to boycott Israel as a means to pressure the country over its treatment of the Palestinians. Israel sees the movement as a strategic threat and accuses it of anti-Semitism -- a claim activists deny, saying they only want to see the occupation end. Prominent Arab Israeli parliament member Ayman Odeh said: "A state that has nothing to hide would not think of preventing the arrival of two members of Congress." "Another desperate attempt to hide the reality to the world," he wrote on Twitter. - Outspoken Trump critics - Both Omar and Tlaib have been critical of Israel's occupation of the West Bank and treatment of Palestinians. The Democrats have also faced accusations of anti-Semitism, which they firmly deny. The Israeli ambassador to the United States, Ron Dermer, had previously signalled the two congresswomen would be allowed to visit out of respect for Washington, Israel's most important ally. But the two are also outspoken political opponents and critics of Trump, who has a close relationship with Netanyahu. Known as "the squad," the congresswomen -- along with two other progressive congressional allies, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ayanna Pressley -- have been in Trump's crosshairs. He has taken aim at the four in a series of xenophobic comments, telling them to "go back" where they came from and accusing them of having "love" for America's "enemies like Al-Qaeda," among other remarks. Ocasio-Cortez, a 29-year-old of Puerto Rican ancestry, is the youngest member of the House of Representatives, while Pressley is the first African American elected to Congress from Massachusetts. Tlaib and Omar, who fled war-torn Somalia as a child and arrived in the United States as a refugee, are the first two Muslim women elected to Congress. Tlaib is also the first woman of Palestinian descent in Congress. Members of Congress are regular visitors to Israel and the Palestinian territories and blocking them would be a highly unusual move. It would occur at a time when Jewish groups in the United States have expressed concern over whether bipartisan support for Israel in Washington is eroding. Democratic candidates for president in the United States have openly criticised Netanyahu, who is seeking re-election in Israel on September 17 after polls earlier this year failed to yield a coalition.

Donald Trump urges Israel to bar visit by US congresswomen Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib

Chinese paramilitary forces were seen near close to the border with Hong Kong. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protests: Chinese paramilitary forces seen near HK

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/we-urge-china-to-adhere-to-sino-british-joint-declaration-on-hong-kong-us-state-department-243027">Hong Kong</a> "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

"Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!" Trump said on Twitter.

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..deferral to December. It actually helps China more than us, but will be reciprocated. Millions of jobs are being lost in China to other non-Tariffed countries. Thousands of companies are leaving. Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1161767691646115840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 14, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi (Jinping) wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?" Trump said.

A US&nbsp;State Department spokeswoman said earlier on Wednesday that the United States was "deeply concerned" about <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-deeply-concerned-by-reports-of-china-paramilitary-movement-near-hong-kong-243100">Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border</a>.

The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US&nbsp;lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention.

Another US&nbsp;official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border.

Watch: Violent clashes continue in Hong Kong

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The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified.

"They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added,&nbsp;"There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy."

China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises."

It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents."

Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong.

On Tuesday, US&nbsp;President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony.

Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on Hong Kong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat Hong Kong "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong.

President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that China wants to make a trade deal but it should treat Hong Kong "humanely" first, explicitly tying a trade agreement to a peaceful resolution of pro-democracy protests in Hong Kong. "Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first!" Trump said on Twitter. ..deferral to December. It actually helps China more than us, but will be reciprocated. Millions of jobs are being lost in China to other non-Tariffed countries. Thousands of companies are leaving. Of course China wants to make a deal. Let them work humanely with Hong Kong first! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 14, 2019 × "I have ZERO doubt that if President Xi (Jinping) wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?" Trump said. A US State Department spokeswoman said earlier on Wednesday that the United States was "deeply concerned" about Chinese paramilitary movement along the Hong Kong border. The State Department's expression of concern came after senior US lawmakers from both the Democratic and Republican parties called on Trump to take a tougher line with China as worries grew over a possible Chinese intervention. Another US official said Beijing had stationed large numbers of paramilitary People's Armed Police (PAP) "near and further out from Hong Kong," in response to weeks of street protests in the territory, but said there had been no sign they were moving towards the border. Watch: Violent clashes continue in Hong Kong × The number of personnel was "in the thousands," said the official, who did not want to be identified. "They have amped up training and made it all pretty visible," he said, but added, "There are no recent indicators that they are preparing to deploy." China's state-run Global Times media outlet reported on Monday that People's Armed Police had been assembling in Shenzhen, a city bordering Hong Kong, "in advance of apparent large-scale exercises." It cited video it had obtained showing numerous armoured personnel carriers (APCs), trucks and other vehicles on expressways heading in the direction of Shenzhen over the weekend. It noted that the role of the PAP was "dealing with rebellions, riots, serious violent and illegal incidents, terrorist attacks and other social security incidents." Satellite images made available to Reuters on Wednesday from Maxar Technologies showed dozens of vehicles, including what appeared to be APCs, at the Shenzhen Bay Sports Centre across the harbour from Hong Kong. On Tuesday, US President Donald Trump cited American intelligence as saying that China was moving troops to its border with Hong Kong, and urged calm as clashes continued between protesters and authorities in the former British colony. Trump, who has been seeking a major deal to correct trade imbalances with China, has faced criticism from Congress and elsewhere for not taking a stronger public line on Hong Kong and for his characterization of the protests earlier this month as "riots" that were a matter for China to deal with.

Trump says China should treat Hong Kong 'humanely' before trade deal can be agreed

Indian shares followed their Asian peers higher on Wednesday after Washington delayed tariffs on some Chinese imports, bringing some relief to global markets rattled by a bruising trade conflict.

Indian shares followed their Asian peers higher on Wednesday after Washington delayed tariffs on some Chinese imports, bringing some relief to global markets rattled by a bruising trade conflict. The broader NSE Nifty rose 0.36% to 10,964.20 as of 0439 GMT, while the benchmark BSE Sensex gained 0.37% to 37,095.80. US President Donald Trump delayed his September 1 deadline for 10% tariffs on some Chinese imports, delaying duties on a range of consumer goods and sending Wall Street stocks soaring on Tuesday. The trade conflict has disrupted global supply chains and slowed economic growth, dampening sentiment across markets. The Nifty metal index gained 1%, led by a 4% increase in manufacturer Tata Steel Ltd, which rose in tandem with commodity prices and was the top gainer on the NSE Nifty. Data showed on Tuesday that India's retail inflation rate had eased slightly in July, although economists said the numbers also indicated subdued demand conditions. Meanwhile, the rupee strengthened slightly on Wednesday to a high of 70.85 against the dollar, after hitting a near six-month low on Tuesday. The positive market reaction after Trump's move followed several sessions dominated by negative headlines, said Dhananjay Sinha, head of institutional research at Emkay Global Financial Services in Mumbai. "There has been a fair amount of pessimism in the last 15 days or so," Sinha said. "Sentiment in the manufacturing sector has been weak since the trade war began. So any positive news on that front is seen as positive for the market." The NSE index has slipped some 9% since its highest level this year amid worries of slowing economic growth and a proposal to raise taxes for foreign portfolio investors. Earlier this week, fears about a drawn out Sino-US trade war, protests in Hong Kong and a crash in Argentina's peso currency also drove investors to safe harbours. Meanwhile, drugmakers Dr Reddy's Laboratories Ltd and Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd fell some 5% each and were the top decliners on the NSE index on Wednesday. Dr Reddy's said US regulators did not approve its female contraceptive, while Sun Pharmaceutical dropped even as it reported a double-digit rise in June-quarter profits.

Nifty, Sensex rises as US President Trump delays China tariffs

The situation in Hong Kong seemed tense as police dressed in riot gear reached the airport. Watch this video to know more.

WION Fineprint: UK condemns violence in Hong Kong

In Washington, U.S. President Donald Trump said the Chinese government was moving troops to the border with Hong Kong and he urged calm.

Hong Kong protests: Hope 'nobody gets killed', says Donald Trump

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants.

Some experts say the new rule could cut legal immigration in half by denying visas and permanent residency to hundreds of thousands of people if they fail to meet high enough income standards or if they receive public assistance such as welfare, food stamps, public housing or Medicaid.&nbsp;

"This illegal rule is just another attempt to vilify immigrants," San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement. Trump has made efforts to curb both legal and illegal immigration, an issue he has made a cornerstone of his presidency and one that he has stressed again as the campaign for the 2020 presidential election heats up.

The rule, unveiled on Monday and to take effect October 15, expands the definition of a public charge, allowing denials to visa applicants who fail to meet income requirements or who receive public assistance.

"The final rule rejects the longstanding, existing definition of public charge, and attempts to redefine it to include even minimal use of a much wider range of non-cash benefits," said the lawsuit, filed in US District Court in San Francisco.

"The final rule will worsen the health and well-being of the counties` residents, increase risks to the public health, undermine the counties` health and safety-net systems, and inflict significant financial harm," the suit said.

San Francisco is both a city and a county. Santa Clara County includes the city of San Jose and various other parts of Silicon Valley.

The suit names US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Department of Homeland Security and their directors as defendants. The former agency declined to comment and the latter did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The suit claims the new rule violates the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 by contradicting the longstanding definition of public charge as a person "primarily" dependent on public assistance for survival.&nbsp;

The suit also claims the new rule would split families, undermining immigration laws to prioritize family unification; misapplies the intent of Congress on the description of self-sufficiency of immigrants; and runs contrary to the statutes governing SNAP, also known as food stamps.

The National Immigration Law Center said it also will file a lawsuit to stop the rule from taking effect. The attorneys general of California and New York have also threatened to sue.

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants.

The city of San Francisco and nearby Santa Clara County sued President Donald Trump`s administration on Tuesday, seeking to block a new rule that would drastically reduce legal immigration by denying visas to poor migrants. Some experts say the new rule could cut legal immigration in half by denying visas and permanent residency to hundreds of thousands of people if they fail to meet high enough income standards or if they receive public assistance such as welfare, food stamps, public housing or Medicaid. "This illegal rule is just another attempt to vilify immigrants," San Francisco City Attorney Dennis Herrera said in a statement. Trump has made efforts to curb both legal and illegal immigration, an issue he has made a cornerstone of his presidency and one that he has stressed again as the campaign for the 2020 presidential election heats up. The rule, unveiled on Monday and to take effect October 15, expands the definition of a public charge, allowing denials to visa applicants who fail to meet income requirements or who receive public assistance. "The final rule rejects the longstanding, existing definition of public charge, and attempts to redefine it to include even minimal use of a much wider range of non-cash benefits," said the lawsuit, filed in US District Court in San Francisco. "The final rule will worsen the health and well-being of the counties` residents, increase risks to the public health, undermine the counties` health and safety-net systems, and inflict significant financial harm," the suit said. San Francisco is both a city and a county. Santa Clara County includes the city of San Jose and various other parts of Silicon Valley. The suit names US Citizenship and Immigration Services, the Department of Homeland Security and their directors as defendants. The former agency declined to comment and the latter did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The suit claims the new rule violates the Immigration and Nationality Act of 1965 by contradicting the longstanding definition of public charge as a person "primarily" dependent on public assistance for survival. The suit also claims the new rule would split families, undermining immigration laws to prioritize family unification; misapplies the intent of Congress on the description of self-sufficiency of immigrants; and runs contrary to the statutes governing SNAP, also known as food stamps. The National Immigration Law Center said it also will file a lawsuit to stop the rule from taking effect. The attorneys general of California and New York have also threatened to sue.

San Francisco sues Trump administration over rule to limit legal immigration

Who's Who in the Jeffrey Epstein sex scandal

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-to-delay-china-tariff-increase-trump-199444"> delaying tariffs</a> on key consumer electronic goods imported from China.

Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems.

About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1.6 per cent at 26,305.14.&nbsp;

The broad-based S&amp;P 500 also climbed 1.6 per cent to 2,928.68, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 2.1 per cent to 8,030.81.

Stocks have been pressured since US President Donald Trump earlier this month announced plans to impose tariffs on $300 billion in Chinese imports on September 1.

Beijing retaliated by halting purchases of US agricultural goods, spawning talk the economic powers may not resolve the longstanding conflict until after the 2020 US presidential election.&nbsp;

US stocks lost more than one per cent on Monday amid worries over slowing global growth, the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-china-trade-war-in-10-dates-241155">US-China trade war </a>and turbulence in a number of international hot spots, including Hong Kong.

On Tuesday, protests at the Hong Kong airport forced the cancellation or suspension of hundreds of flights at the busy hub for a second day, while state-run media broadcast videos of security forces gathering across the border.

US economic data showed a jump in inflation in July, while a German investor confidence index sunk to its lowest level in almost eight years in August, bolstering expectations the European Central Bank will soon enact measures to provide more stimulus.

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was delaying tariffs on key consumer electronic goods imported from China. Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems.

Wall Street stocks bounced early Tuesday after the US government announced it was delaying tariffs on key consumer electronic goods imported from China. Major indices rallied more than one per cent after Washington pushed back the imposition of the 10 per cent tariffs until December 15 for products that included cell phones, laptops and video game systems. About 25 minutes into trading, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was up 1.6 per cent at 26,305.14. The broad-based S&P 500 also climbed 1.6 per cent to 2,928.68, while the tech-rich Nasdaq Composite Index jumped 2.1 per cent to 8,030.81. Stocks have been pressured since US President Donald Trump earlier this month announced plans to impose tariffs on $300 billion in Chinese imports on September 1. Beijing retaliated by halting purchases of US agricultural goods, spawning talk the economic powers may not resolve the longstanding conflict until after the 2020 US presidential election. US stocks lost more than one per cent on Monday amid worries over slowing global growth, the US-China trade war and turbulence in a number of international hot spots, including Hong Kong. On Tuesday, protests at the Hong Kong airport forced the cancellation or suspension of hundreds of flights at the busy hub for a second day, while state-run media broadcast videos of security forces gathering across the border. US economic data showed a jump in inflation in July, while a German investor confidence index sunk to its lowest level in almost eight years in August, bolstering expectations the European Central Bank will soon enact measures to provide more stimulus.

US stocks jump as Trump delays some key China tariffs

Stephen Biegun, the diplomat who has been leading efforts to revive stalled US denuclearisation talks with North Korea, is under consideration to be President Donald Trump's next ambassador to Russia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

The current ambassador to Moscow, Jon Huntsman, is due to step down in October after two years in the post, the State Department said last week, amid speculation he plans to run for Utah governor.

Vox news on Friday quoted two people familiar with internal White House discussions as saying that Biegun, the current US special representative for North Korea, was Trump’s likely choice for Moscow.

A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that Biegun's name was under consideration.

Biegun did not immediately respond when asked about the Vox report. The State Department said it had no administrative announcements to make.

If Biegun, a Russia specialist, was to get the Moscow post, it would leave a significant hole in the US&nbsp;effort to resume talks aim at persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons, a policy priority for Trump.

Biegun led US working-level negotiations with North Korea in the run-up to a failed second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Hanoi in February.

Trump and Kim met again at the end of June and agreed to resume working-level talks, but this has yet to happen.

Trump said on Saturday Kim had told him he was ready to resume talks and would stop his recent missile testing as soon as US-South Korea military exercises being held this month-end.

The allies kicked off the largely computer-simulated exercises on Saturday for a 10-day run, as an alternative to previous large-scale annual drills that were halted to expedite nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington.

US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was hopeful working-level talks would resume in the coming weeks and said the US side was planning for negotiations in a couple of weeks.

Biegun gave up a job at Ford as head of international government relations to take on his current role, which many consider a near-impossible job. He previously had worked for decades as a congressional staffer and as a White House foreign policy aide under President George W. Bush.

Biegun, 56, studied political science and Russian language at the University of Michigan and was a resident director for the International Republican Institute in Moscow from 1992-1994. He has also as served on the board of the non-profit US-Russia Foundation for Economic Development and the Rule of Law. 
&nbsp;

Stephen Biegun, the diplomat who has been leading efforts to revive stalled US denuclearisation talks with North Korea, is under consideration to be President Donald Trump's next ambassador to Russia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday.

Stephen Biegun, the diplomat who has been leading efforts to revive stalled US denuclearisation talks with North Korea, is under consideration to be President Donald Trump's next ambassador to Russia, a source familiar with the matter said on Monday. The current ambassador to Moscow, Jon Huntsman, is due to step down in October after two years in the post, the State Department said last week, amid speculation he plans to run for Utah governor. Vox news on Friday quoted two people familiar with internal White House discussions as saying that Biegun, the current US special representative for North Korea, was Trump’s likely choice for Moscow. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that Biegun's name was under consideration. Biegun did not immediately respond when asked about the Vox report. The State Department said it had no administrative announcements to make. If Biegun, a Russia specialist, was to get the Moscow post, it would leave a significant hole in the US effort to resume talks aim at persuading North Korea to give up its nuclear weapons, a policy priority for Trump. Biegun led US working-level negotiations with North Korea in the run-up to a failed second summit between Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in Hanoi in February. Trump and Kim met again at the end of June and agreed to resume working-level talks, but this has yet to happen. Trump said on Saturday Kim had told him he was ready to resume talks and would stop his recent missile testing as soon as US-South Korea military exercises being held this month-end. The allies kicked off the largely computer-simulated exercises on Saturday for a 10-day run, as an alternative to previous large-scale annual drills that were halted to expedite nuclear talks between Pyongyang and Washington. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Wednesday he was hopeful working-level talks would resume in the coming weeks and said the US side was planning for negotiations in a couple of weeks. Biegun gave up a job at Ford as head of international government relations to take on his current role, which many consider a near-impossible job. He previously had worked for decades as a congressional staffer and as a White House foreign policy aide under President George W. Bush. Biegun, 56, studied political science and Russian language at the University of Michigan and was a resident director for the International Republican Institute in Moscow from 1992-1994. He has also as served on the board of the non-profit US-Russia Foundation for Economic Development and the Rule of Law.

Donald Trump considering North Korea envoy as next ambassador to Russia: Report

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-advanced-weapons-than-the-failed-russian-skyfall-missile-donald-trump-242558">US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump</a>

United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-says-rule-of-law-being-damaged-citys-recovery-will-take-long-time-242574">Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says rule of law being damaged, city's recovery will take long time</a>

Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-china-sign-four-mous-agree-to-organise-100-activities-242563">India, China sign four MoUs, agree to organise 100 activities</a>

India and China on Monday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreed to organise 100 activities in the coming months in the domain of film and broadcasting in bid to further strengthen the cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-would-enthusiastically-support-a-uk-choice-for-no-deal-brexit-security-adviser-john-bolton-242569">US would enthusiastically support a UK choice for no-deal Brexit: Security adviser John Bolton</a>

The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/40-years-of-walkman-worlds-first-portable-music-player-242568">40 years of Walkman: World's first portable music player</a>

It has been 40 years since the Japanese electronics giant, Sony, launched the iconic 'walkman'- the portable music playback device.

You will hardly meet a college-going youth of the 1980s who wasn't a walkman fan. The ubiquitous cassette player was a must-have gadget of the youth of those times.

&nbsp;

US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon.

US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon. Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam says rule of law being damaged, city's recovery will take long time Hong Kong leader Carrie Lam said on Tuesday that "lawbreaking activities in the name of freedom" were damaging the rule of law and that the Asian financial hub's recovery from anti-government protests could take a long time. India, China sign four MoUs, agree to organise 100 activities India and China on Monday signed four Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) and agreed to organise 100 activities in the coming months in the domain of film and broadcasting in bid to further strengthen the cultural and people-to-people ties between the two countries. US would enthusiastically support a UK choice for no-deal Brexit: Security adviser John Bolton The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties. 40 years of Walkman: World's first portable music player It has been 40 years since the Japanese electronics giant, Sony, launched the iconic 'walkman'- the portable music playback device. You will hardly meet a college-going youth of the 1980s who wasn't a walkman fan. The ubiquitous cassette player was a must-have gadget of the youth of those times.

News brief: Big stories of the day

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/russians-killed-in-missile-test-blast-were-working-on-new-weapons-242543"> nuclear weapons</a> despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels.

Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear agency, has said that the August 8 accident occurred during a rocket test on a sea platform in the White Sea, killing at least five and injuring three more.

It has pledged to keep developing new weapons regardless, portraying the men who died in the test as heroes.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump had said on Twitter on Monday that the United States was<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-has-advanced-weapons-than-the-failed-russian-skyfall-missile-donald-trump-242558"> "learning much" from the explosion </a>which he suggested happened during the testing of a nuclear-powered cruise missile vaunted by President Vladimir Putin last year.

Russia, which has said the missile will have an "unlimited range" and be able to overcome any defences, calls the missile the 9M730 Burevestnik (Storm Petrel). The NATO alliance has designated it the SSC-X-9 Skyfall.

Trump said on Twitter that the United States had "similar, though more advanced, technology" and said Russians were worried about the air quality around the facility and far beyond, a situation he described as "Not good!"

But when asked about his comments on Tuesday, the Kremlin said it, not the United States, was out in front when it came to developing new nuclear weapons.

"Our president has repeatedly said that Russian engineering in this sector significantly outstrips the level that other countries have managed to reach for the moment, and it is fairly unique," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said.

Putin used his state-of-the-nation speech in 2018 to unveil what he described as a raft of invincible new nuclear weapons, including a nuclear-powered cruise missile, an underwater nuclear-powered drone, and a laser weapon.

Tensions between Moscow and Washington over arms control have been exacerbated by the demise this month of a landmark nuclear treaty.

Russia says it is also concerned that another landmark arms control treaty will soon expire.

In a sign of how serious the situation in the accident area remains, Russian authorities have advised residents of the nearby village of Nyonoksa to leave while clear-up work is being carried out, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday, citing local officials.

Russia's state weather service also said on Tuesday that radiation levels in the nearby city of Severodvinsk had spiked by up to 16 times last Thursday, while medics who treated victims of the accident have been sent to Moscow for a medical examination, the TASS news agency reported.

It said the medics had signed non-disclosure agreements about the nature of the accident.

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge nuclear weapons despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels.

The Kremlin boasted on Tuesday it was winning the race to develop new cutting edge nuclear weapons despite a mysterious rocket accident last week in northern Russia that caused a temporary spike in radiation levels. Rosatom, Russia's state nuclear agency, has said that the August 8 accident occurred during a rocket test on a sea platform in the White Sea, killing at least five and injuring three more. It has pledged to keep developing new weapons regardless, portraying the men who died in the test as heroes. US President Donald Trump had said on Twitter on Monday that the United States was "learning much" from the explosion which he suggested happened during the testing of a nuclear-powered cruise missile vaunted by President Vladimir Putin last year. Russia, which has said the missile will have an "unlimited range" and be able to overcome any defences, calls the missile the 9M730 Burevestnik (Storm Petrel). The NATO alliance has designated it the SSC-X-9 Skyfall. Trump said on Twitter that the United States had "similar, though more advanced, technology" and said Russians were worried about the air quality around the facility and far beyond, a situation he described as "Not good!" But when asked about his comments on Tuesday, the Kremlin said it, not the United States, was out in front when it came to developing new nuclear weapons. "Our president has repeatedly said that Russian engineering in this sector significantly outstrips the level that other countries have managed to reach for the moment, and it is fairly unique," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said. Putin used his state-of-the-nation speech in 2018 to unveil what he described as a raft of invincible new nuclear weapons, including a nuclear-powered cruise missile, an underwater nuclear-powered drone, and a laser weapon. Tensions between Moscow and Washington over arms control have been exacerbated by the demise this month of a landmark nuclear treaty. Russia says it is also concerned that another landmark arms control treaty will soon expire. In a sign of how serious the situation in the accident area remains, Russian authorities have advised residents of the nearby village of Nyonoksa to leave while clear-up work is being carried out, the Interfax news agency reported on Tuesday, citing local officials. Russia's state weather service also said on Tuesday that radiation levels in the nearby city of Severodvinsk had spiked by up to 16 times last Thursday, while medics who treated victims of the accident have been sent to Moscow for a medical examination, the TASS news agency reported. It said the medics had signed non-disclosure agreements about the nature of the accident.

Winning arms race against US despite rocket accident: Russia

The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/if-it-comes-to-a-hard-brexit-british-would-be-the-big-losers-european-unions-jean-claude-juncker-tells-britain-242089">British government </a>decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties.

Bolton told British<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/british-pm-johnson-to-meet-irelands-varadkar-over-brexit-report-242210"> Prime Minister Boris Johnson</a> that President Donald Trump wants to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington will be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement.

Johnson wants the EU to renegotiate the terms of Britain's exit ahead of an October 31 departure date, but the EU says it will not alter the part of the deal Johnson says must be changed.

The impasse leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy.

"If that's the decision of the British government we will support it enthusiastically, and that's what I'm trying to convey. We're with you, we're with you," Bolton told reporters after his first day of meetings.

As Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

Bolton, in London for two days of talks, is seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May.

He said British officials had given him an unmistakable sense that they were determined to honour the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU. Bolton offered his support for this stance:

“The fashion in the European Union: When the people vote the wrong way from the way the elites want to go, it’s to make the peasants vote again and again until they get it right,” he said.

Trade deal

The central message Bolton was delivering is that the United States would help cushion Britain's exit from the EU with a free trade deal that is being negotiated by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and his British counterpart, Liz Truss.

Bolton said Britain and the United States could agree trade deals on a sector-by-sector basis, leaving more difficult areas in the trading relationship until later.

He said the ultimate aim was a comprehensive trade deal, but highlighted that financial services could be one of the more difficult industries to reach an agreement on.

Earlier a senior Trump administration official told travelling reporters the president had wanted to work with the May government on a trade deal but her government "didn't want do it. This government does. We're very happy about it."

Trump believes that "when it comes to trade negotiations the EU is worse than China, only smaller", the official said.

Johnson spoke to Trump on Monday, discussing Brexit, trade and economic issues, his office said. "They discussed global economic issues and trade, and the prime minister updated the president on Brexit," Downing Street said.

"The president expressed his appreciation for the United Kingdom's steadfast partnership in addressing global challenges and looks forward to meeting with him (Johnson) personally in the near future," the White House said.

Iran and China

Bolton had been expected to urge officials from Johnson's newly formed, eurosceptic government to align its policy on Iran more along the lines of the United States, which has pushed a much tougher line against Tehran since withdrawing from world powers' 2015 nuclear agreement with Tehran.

But, after his meetings, Bolton said talks on some of these thornier diplomatic issues could wait.

Bolton said his message had been: "We're not here to pressure you on this ... We want to be helpful on Brexit."

Britain, one of three European partners to the deal along with Germany and France, has so far backed the EU in sticking with the accord known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action.

But the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran last month has put pressure on London to consider a more robust stance.

British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant's vessels.

Trump has also sought Britain's help in getting tougher on the Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei out of concern that its next-generation 5G technology represent a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei.

The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties.

The United States would enthusiastically support a no-deal Brexit if that is what the British government decided to do, US national security adviser John Bolton said on Monday during a visit to London aimed at reassuring Britain over UK-US ties. Bolton told British Prime Minister Boris Johnson that President Donald Trump wants to see a successful British exit from the European Union on October 31 and that Washington will be ready to work fast on a US-UK free trade agreement. Johnson wants the EU to renegotiate the terms of Britain's exit ahead of an October 31 departure date, but the EU says it will not alter the part of the deal Johnson says must be changed. The impasse leaves Britain facing an exit without any formal transition period or legal agreement covering issues such as trade, data transfers and border policy. "If that's the decision of the British government we will support it enthusiastically, and that's what I'm trying to convey. We're with you, we're with you," Bolton told reporters after his first day of meetings. As Britain prepares to leave the European Union, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States. Bolton, in London for two days of talks, is seeking an improved US-British relationship with Johnson after sometimes tense ties between Trump and Johnson's predecessor, Theresa May. He said British officials had given him an unmistakable sense that they were determined to honour the 2016 referendum vote to leave the EU. Bolton offered his support for this stance: “The fashion in the European Union: When the people vote the wrong way from the way the elites want to go, it’s to make the peasants vote again and again until they get it right,” he said. Trade deal The central message Bolton was delivering is that the United States would help cushion Britain's exit from the EU with a free trade deal that is being negotiated by US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer and his British counterpart, Liz Truss. Bolton said Britain and the United States could agree trade deals on a sector-by-sector basis, leaving more difficult areas in the trading relationship until later. He said the ultimate aim was a comprehensive trade deal, but highlighted that financial services could be one of the more difficult industries to reach an agreement on. Earlier a senior Trump administration official told travelling reporters the president had wanted to work with the May government on a trade deal but her government "didn't want do it. This government does. We're very happy about it." Trump believes that "when it comes to trade negotiations the EU is worse than China, only smaller", the official said. Johnson spoke to Trump on Monday, discussing Brexit, trade and economic issues, his office said. "They discussed global economic issues and trade, and the prime minister updated the president on Brexit," Downing Street said. "The president expressed his appreciation for the United Kingdom's steadfast partnership in addressing global challenges and looks forward to meeting with him (Johnson) personally in the near future," the White House said. Iran and China Bolton had been expected to urge officials from Johnson's newly formed, eurosceptic government to align its policy on Iran more along the lines of the United States, which has pushed a much tougher line against Tehran since withdrawing from world powers' 2015 nuclear agreement with Tehran. But, after his meetings, Bolton said talks on some of these thornier diplomatic issues could wait. Bolton said his message had been: "We're not here to pressure you on this ... We want to be helpful on Brexit." Britain, one of three European partners to the deal along with Germany and France, has so far backed the EU in sticking with the accord known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. But the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz by Iran last month has put pressure on London to consider a more robust stance. British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant's vessels. Trump has also sought Britain's help in getting tougher on the Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei out of concern that its next-generation 5G technology represent a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei.

US would enthusiastically support a UK choice for no-deal Brexit: Security adviser John Bolton

United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in&nbsp;Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon.

The failed missile explosion which has been cloaked in secrecy took place on Thursday at the Nenoska naval weapons range on the coast of the White Sea in northern Russia.

"The United States is learning much from the failed missile explosion in Russia. We have similar, though more advanced, technology. The Russian "Skyfall" explosion has people worried about the air around the facility, and far beyond. Not good!," tweeted Trump.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The United States is learning much from the failed missile explosion in Russia. We have similar, though more advanced, technology. The Russian “Skyfall” explosion has people worried about the air around the facility, and far beyond. Not good!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1161026203345723393?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 12, 2019</a></blockquote>
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This is a first official reaction of Washington in relation with the explosion.

According to CNN, the incident had taken place on Thursday near Severodvinsk, a town located in the Arkhangelsk region which is home to a naval base and a shipyard, the Russian Defence Ministry had said.

Local authorities said that sensors "recorded a short-term increase in the radiation background" at 11:50 am (local time) on Thursday when the blast took place.

However, the radiation level started decreasing by 12:30 pm and returned to normal levels at around 2 pm, Rosatom said.

This was the second accident to hit the Russian military in less than a week.

At least 12 people had suffered injuries in an explosion at an ammunition depot in the Krasnoyarsk region on Tuesday.

(With inputs from ANI)

United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon. The failed missile explosion which has been cloaked in secrecy took place on Thursday at the Nenoska naval weapons range on the coast of the White Sea in northern Russia.

United States President Donald Trump weighed in on a mysterious explosion in Russia, noting US technology is more advanced to the "failed" weapon. The failed missile explosion which has been cloaked in secrecy took place on Thursday at the Nenoska naval weapons range on the coast of the White Sea in northern Russia. "The United States is learning much from the failed missile explosion in Russia. We have similar, though more advanced, technology. The Russian "Skyfall" explosion has people worried about the air around the facility, and far beyond. Not good!," tweeted Trump. The United States is learning much from the failed missile explosion in Russia. We have similar, though more advanced, technology. The Russian “Skyfall” explosion has people worried about the air around the facility, and far beyond. Not good! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 12, 2019 × This is a first official reaction of Washington in relation with the explosion. According to CNN, the incident had taken place on Thursday near Severodvinsk, a town located in the Arkhangelsk region which is home to a naval base and a shipyard, the Russian Defence Ministry had said. Local authorities said that sensors "recorded a short-term increase in the radiation background" at 11:50 am (local time) on Thursday when the blast took place. However, the radiation level started decreasing by 12:30 pm and returned to normal levels at around 2 pm, Rosatom said. This was the second accident to hit the Russian military in less than a week. At least 12 people had suffered injuries in an explosion at an ammunition depot in the Krasnoyarsk region on Tuesday. (With inputs from ANI)

US has advanced weapons than the 'failed' Russian 'Skyfall' missile: Donald Trump

Donald Trump has made it clear that his offer of mediation on Kashmir is not on the table anymore, the Indian ambassador has said. Ambassador Harsh Vardhan Shringla has said that America’s decades-old policy on Kashmir has been no mediation but to encourage India and Pakistan to resolve their differences bilaterally. Watch this video to know more.

Kashmir issue: India's Envoy to US clears the air

US President Donald Trump has made it very clear that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/president-trump-offers-to-mediate-on-kashmir-issue-during-meeting-with-pakistan-pm-imran-khan-report-237780">his offer to mediate between India and Pakistan</a> on the Kashmir issue is not on the table anymore after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/india-rubbishes-donald-trumps-claim-that-pm-modi-asked-him-to-mediate-in-resolving-kashmir-issue-237794">New Delhi rejected it</a>, India ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, said on Monday (local time).

"President Trump has made it very clear that his offer to mediate on Jammu and Kashmir is dependent on both India and Pakistan. Since India has not accepted his offer, the president has made it clear that this is not on the table anymore," the Indian envoy said in an interview with Bret Baier of Fox News.

"It has been the United States long-standing policy. The United Nations Secretary-General was also very clear that this issue has to be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan in keeping with the agreements-- the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore declaration-- that the two countries had signed.This is not an issue that needs to be settled with a third party and President Trump has clarified it," Shringla added.

Tensions simmered between the two neighbours following New Delhi`s historic decision to abrogate Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and transform it into Union Territories, with effect from October 31.

Rattled by India`s decision, Pakistan had initiated a series of measures against its neighbour, including the downgrading of bilateral ties and suspension of cross-border communication of railways and bus services.

Followingly, India had urged Pakistan to review its decision but the request was refuted by Islamabad.

Referring to the ongoing crisis in the region, Shringla stated, "India`s decision is an administrative one. It is the 12th time that India is taking such reorganisation of states. It does not in any way impinge on the borders of Jammu and Kashmir or the international borders and it is, therefore, an internal matter of India."

"We have taken this decision because we have found that over 70 years the level of development in the state has been hampered due to the special status that it enjoyed, which was, in any case, a temporary provision in the Indian Constitution. And now the intention is to ensure good governance and socio-economic justice reaches the state," he added.

In the wake of India`s decision, Pakistan has also urged the international community, including groups such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, to interfere in the matter and called for restraint against the so-called "illegal aggression" of New Delhi in the region

US President Donald Trump has made it very clear that his offer to mediate between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue is not on the table anymore after New Delhi rejected it, India ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, said on Monday (local time).

US President Donald Trump has made it very clear that his offer to mediate between India and Pakistan on the Kashmir issue is not on the table anymore after New Delhi rejected it, India ambassador to the US, Harsh Vardhan Shringla, said on Monday (local time). "President Trump has made it very clear that his offer to mediate on Jammu and Kashmir is dependent on both India and Pakistan. Since India has not accepted his offer, the president has made it clear that this is not on the table anymore," the Indian envoy said in an interview with Bret Baier of Fox News. "It has been the United States long-standing policy. The United Nations Secretary-General was also very clear that this issue has to be resolved bilaterally between India and Pakistan in keeping with the agreements-- the Shimla Agreement and the Lahore declaration-- that the two countries had signed.This is not an issue that needs to be settled with a third party and President Trump has clarified it," Shringla added. Tensions simmered between the two neighbours following New Delhi`s historic decision to abrogate Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu and Kashmir, and transform it into Union Territories, with effect from October 31. Rattled by India`s decision, Pakistan had initiated a series of measures against its neighbour, including the downgrading of bilateral ties and suspension of cross-border communication of railways and bus services. Followingly, India had urged Pakistan to review its decision but the request was refuted by Islamabad. Referring to the ongoing crisis in the region, Shringla stated, "India`s decision is an administrative one. It is the 12th time that India is taking such reorganisation of states. It does not in any way impinge on the borders of Jammu and Kashmir or the international borders and it is, therefore, an internal matter of India." "We have taken this decision because we have found that over 70 years the level of development in the state has been hampered due to the special status that it enjoyed, which was, in any case, a temporary provision in the Indian Constitution. And now the intention is to ensure good governance and socio-economic justice reaches the state," he added. In the wake of India`s decision, Pakistan has also urged the international community, including groups such as the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, to interfere in the matter and called for restraint against the so-called "illegal aggression" of New Delhi in the region

Trump's Kashmir mediation offer not on table anymore: Indian envoy

Jeffrey Epstein: How the man with famous friends fell apart

Former vice president Joe Biden, the frontrunner for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, called on Monday for reinstating a ban on assault weapons and including a buyback program to get them off the streets.

In a column in The New York Times, Biden also called for stricter background checks for gun buyers and greater use of "smart-gun technology" that allows a weapon only to be fired by its authorized owner. &nbsp;

"We have a huge problem with guns," Biden said in the article published about a week after mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, left 31 people dead.

"Assault weapons -- military-style firearms designed to fire rapidly -- are a threat to our national security, and we should treat them as such," the former senator from Delaware said.

"There's overwhelming data that shootings committed with assault weapons kill more people than shootings with other types of guns," he said.

"Shooters looking to inflict mass carnage choose assault weapons with high-capacity magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds," Biden said. "They choose them because they want to kill as many people as possible without having to stop and reload."

Biden said that if he wins the 2020 presidential election, he would seek to reimpose a 1994 ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

"And this time, we're going to pair it with a buyback program to get as many assault weapons off our streets as possible as quickly as possible," he said.

The 1994 law that banned assault weapons expired in 2004.

Biden said that besides stricter background checks for gun buyers he would "accelerate the development and deployment of smart-gun technology... so that guns are keyed to the individual biometrics of authorized owners."

Following the El Paso and Dayton shootings, President Donald Trump has said he supports expanding background checks but has come out against an assault weapons ban, a measure that is also opposed by the powerful gun lobby, the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Former vice president Joe Biden, the frontrunner for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, called on Monday for reinstating a ban on assault weapons and including a buyback program to get them off the streets.

Former vice president Joe Biden, the frontrunner for the 2020 Democratic presidential nomination, called on Monday for reinstating a ban on assault weapons and including a buyback program to get them off the streets. In a column in The New York Times, Biden also called for stricter background checks for gun buyers and greater use of "smart-gun technology" that allows a weapon only to be fired by its authorized owner. "We have a huge problem with guns," Biden said in the article published about a week after mass shootings in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio, left 31 people dead. "Assault weapons -- military-style firearms designed to fire rapidly -- are a threat to our national security, and we should treat them as such," the former senator from Delaware said. "There's overwhelming data that shootings committed with assault weapons kill more people than shootings with other types of guns," he said. "Shooters looking to inflict mass carnage choose assault weapons with high-capacity magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds," Biden said. "They choose them because they want to kill as many people as possible without having to stop and reload." Biden said that if he wins the 2020 presidential election, he would seek to reimpose a 1994 ban on assault weapons and high-capacity magazines. "And this time, we're going to pair it with a buyback program to get as many assault weapons off our streets as possible as quickly as possible," he said. The 1994 law that banned assault weapons expired in 2004. Biden said that besides stricter background checks for gun buyers he would "accelerate the development and deployment of smart-gun technology... so that guns are keyed to the individual biometrics of authorized owners." Following the El Paso and Dayton shootings, President Donald Trump has said he supports expanding background checks but has come out against an assault weapons ban, a measure that is also opposed by the powerful gun lobby, the National Rifle Association (NRA).

Joe Biden calls for reinstating assault weapons ban, buyback program

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/huawei-launches-first-product-with-own-operating-system-242084">Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei</a>.

As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union on October 31, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States.

Bolton’s two days of talks on Monday and Tuesday, to include a heavy focus on Brexit, reflect the Trump White House’s attempts to solidify ties with the new British government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/very-stupid-guy-donald-trump-renews-attack-on-uk-ambassador-theresa-may-234370">Trump’s strained relationship with former Prime Minister Theresa May</a>.

Bolton is expected to urge British officials to align policy on Iran more closely with that of Washington, which has pressured Tehran with ever-tightening sanctions after Trump withdrew the United States from the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/iran-says-any-external-military-presence-in-gulf-source-of-insecurity-241885">Iran nuclear deal</a>.

Britain has so far backed the European Union in sticking with the nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, but the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has put pressure on London to consider a tougher stance.

British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant vessels.

A senior Trump administration official said Bolton’s argument to the British will be that it would help add pressure on Iran if London would declare the JCPOA dead but that such a decision was not expected soon.

Trump has also pushed Britain to get tougher on China’s Huawei out of concern its next-generation 5G technology represents a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei.

Under former PM May, the British government decided in principle to give Huawei limited access to non-core parts of the 5G network, but the senior US official said Bolton hoped to find a friendlier audience on the topic from the Johnson government. A final British decision has not yet been taken.

Bolton plans to argue that Huawei is an arm of the Chinese government and that its hardware could be used to monitor communications that go through its system.

Trump and New York-born Johnson have spoken frequently on the phone since the new prime minister took power and Trump wants to seal a US-British free trade agreement in order to help cushion Britain when it exits the European Union.

The two leaders are to meet later this month at the G7 summit in Biarritz, France.

Bolton, who met last week in Washington with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, is to have lunch on Monday with Britain’s cabinet secretary, Mark Sedwill, and later meet at No. 10 Downing Street with Edward Lister, who is Johnson’s chief strategic adviser.&nbsp;

Later in the day, Bolton will meet Sajid Javid, Johnson's new finance minister.

On Tuesday, Bolton is due to meet Liz Truss, Britain’s international trade secretary, and Ben Wallace, the new defense secretary, as well as Steve Barclay, the minister for exiting the European Union, among other officials.&nbsp;

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei.

John Bolton, US President Donald Trump’s national security adviser, arrived in London on Sunday for talks at which he is expected to urge Britain to toughen its stance on Iran and Chinese telecommunications firm Huawei. As the United Kingdom prepares to leave the European Union on October 31, its biggest geopolitical shift since World War Two, many diplomats expect London to become increasingly reliant on the United States. Bolton’s two days of talks on Monday and Tuesday, to include a heavy focus on Brexit, reflect the Trump White House’s attempts to solidify ties with the new British government of Prime Minister Boris Johnson after Trump’s strained relationship with former Prime Minister Theresa May. Bolton is expected to urge British officials to align policy on Iran more closely with that of Washington, which has pressured Tehran with ever-tightening sanctions after Trump withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal. Britain has so far backed the European Union in sticking with the nuclear accord, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, but the seizure of a British oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz has put pressure on London to consider a tougher stance. British marines seized an Iranian vessel, which is suspected of smuggling oil to Syria, off the coast of Gibraltar on July 4. This month, Britain joined the United States in a maritime security mission in the Gulf to protect merchant vessels. A senior Trump administration official said Bolton’s argument to the British will be that it would help add pressure on Iran if London would declare the JCPOA dead but that such a decision was not expected soon. Trump has also pushed Britain to get tougher on China’s Huawei out of concern its next-generation 5G technology represents a national security risk. Washington wants its allies, including Britain, to avoid using equipment from Huawei. Under former PM May, the British government decided in principle to give Huawei limited access to non-core parts of the 5G network, but the senior US official said Bolton hoped to find a friendlier audience on the topic from the Johnson government. A final British decision has not yet been taken. Bolton plans to argue that Huawei is an arm of the Chinese government and that its hardware could be used to monitor communications that go through its system. Trump and New York-born Johnson have spoken frequently on the phone since the new prime minister took power and Trump wants to seal a US-British free trade agreement in order to help cushion Britain when it exits the European Union. The two leaders are to meet later this month at the G7 summit in Biarritz, France. Bolton, who met last week in Washington with British Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab, is to have lunch on Monday with Britain’s cabinet secretary, Mark Sedwill, and later meet at No. 10 Downing Street with Edward Lister, who is Johnson’s chief strategic adviser. Later in the day, Bolton will meet Sajid Javid, Johnson's new finance minister. On Tuesday, Bolton is due to meet Liz Truss, Britain’s international trade secretary, and Ben Wallace, the new defense secretary, as well as Steve Barclay, the minister for exiting the European Union, among other officials.

US security adviser John Bolton to urge tougher UK stance on Iran and China

The United States President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-hits-back-at-britains-ambassador-in-us-says-not-served-the-uk-well-233860">Donald Trump</a> renewed his attack on the UK's ambassador to Washington on Tuesday as he described him as "wacky", "very stupid" and "pompous fool". He also targeted British Prime Minister Theresa May as he said that the Brexit deal was a "disaster"&nbsp;because she went on "her own foolish way-was unable to get it done."

"The wacky Ambassador that the UK foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation," he said, adding, "And not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was handled."

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The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was...
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1148559442885185536?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"I told @theresa_may how to do that deal, but she went her own foolish way-was unable to get it done," Trump added in another tweet.

"A disaster! I don't know the Ambassador but have been told he is a pompous fool," he also said.

The tweet comes after the spokesman of British Prime Minister said that the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-offers-full-support-to-us-ambassador-trump-lashes-out-at-theresa-may-after-leak-of-damning-cables-234128">UK ambassador to Washington, Kim Darroch</a>, has May's full support.

London has been scrambling to stem the damage caused by the weekend release of confidential telegrams in which its envoy Darroch&nbsp;described the US leader as "inept" and his White House as "uniquely dysfunctional."&nbsp;

He had also said that Trump's presidency could "crash and burn" and "end in disgrace", according to a cache of secret cables and briefing notes sent back to Britain seen by the Mail on Sunday newspaper.

The cables' publication in the Mail on Sunday newspaper came just a month after Trump enjoyed a state visit to Britain that included a 41-gun salute welcome at Buckingham Palace and a banquet dinner with the queen.

The incident threatens to complicate London's efforts to strike a new trade agreement with key ally the United States, in hope of mitigating potential damage from Britain's withdrawal from the European Union.

(With inputs from agencies)

The United States President Donald Trump renewed his attack on the UK's ambassador to Washington on Tuesday as he described him as "wacky", "very stupid" and "pompous fool".

The United States President Donald Trump renewed his attack on the UK's ambassador to Washington on Tuesday as he described him as "wacky", "very stupid" and "pompous fool". He also targeted British Prime Minister Theresa May as he said that the Brexit deal was a "disaster" because she went on "her own foolish way-was unable to get it done." "The wacky Ambassador that the UK foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation," he said, adding, "And not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was handled." The wacky Ambassador that the U.K. foisted upon the United States is not someone we are thrilled with, a very stupid guy. He should speak to his country, and Prime Minister May, about their failed Brexit negotiation, and not be upset with my criticism of how badly it was... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) July 9, 2019 × "I told @theresa_may how to do that deal, but she went her own foolish way-was unable to get it done," Trump added in another tweet. "A disaster! I don't know the Ambassador but have been told he is a pompous fool," he also said. The tweet comes after the spokesman of British Prime Minister said that the UK ambassador to Washington, Kim Darroch, has May's full support. London has been scrambling to stem the damage caused by the weekend release of confidential telegrams in which its envoy Darroch described the US leader as "inept" and his White House as "uniquely dysfunctional." He had also said that Trump's presidency could "crash and burn" and "end in disgrace", according to a cache of secret cables and briefing notes sent back to Britain seen by the Mail on Sunday newspaper. The cables' publication in the Mail on Sunday newspaper came just a month after Trump enjoyed a state visit to Britain that included a 41-gun salute welcome at Buckingham Palace and a banquet dinner with the queen. The incident threatens to complicate London's efforts to strike a new trade agreement with key ally the United States, in hope of mitigating potential damage from Britain's withdrawal from the European Union. (With inputs from agencies)

'Very stupid guy,' Donald Trump renews attack on UK ambassador to US, Theresa May

Outrage and intrigue over the apparent suicide in prison of well-connected accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein soared Sunday as US lawmakers pushed for answers, including whether "criminal acts" played a role in his death.

Epstein, a convicted paedophile who hobnobbed with countless politicians and celebrities over the years, was <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/wealthy-financier-jeffrey-epstein-kills-himself-in-prison-242042">found dead in his cell Saturday</a> while awaiting trial on federal charges he trafficked underage girls for sex.

The discovery came a day after a court released documents in which one of Epstein's alleged victims claimed she was forced to have sex with well-known American political and business personalities. They have all denied the allegations.

Epstein's death in a high-security New York jail, an apparent suicide that came just weeks after an earlier possible attempt on his own life, meant he should have been under close watch and has fueled anger and a conspiracy theory frenzy.

Watch: Jeffrey Epstein 'Found Dead In Cell'

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"These survivors deserved a day in court. They deserved justice," Democratic Senator and 2020 presidential candidate Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said Sunday.

"It is a shame that he committed suicide," she told CBS's "Face the Nation."

New York's chief medical examiner Barbara Sampson said Sunday that an autopsy had been completed, but the determination of the cause of death was "pending further information at this time."

The procedure was observed by an outside pathologist at the request of Epstein's representatives, she added.

Cellmate reportedly moved

US Attorney General Bill Barr has instructed the Justice Department's inspector general to probe Epstein's death, saying it "raises serious questions that must be answered."

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/first-fbi-now-justice-department-probing-jeffrey-epstein-death-242081">FBI is also investigating</a>.

The New York Times reported Sunday that guards were supposed to check Epstein every half hour but that procedure was not followed the night before he was found, citing an unnamed law enforcement official.

The jail had also transferred his cellmate, leaving him alone, the Times said, citing two officials.

Epstein, 66, had been charged with one count of sex trafficking of minors and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors.&nbsp;

Prosecutors said Epstein sexually exploited dozens of underage teens, some as young as 14, at his homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida, between 2002 and 2005.

The young women were paid hundreds of dollars in cash to massage him, perform sexual acts and to recruit other girls, prosecutors alleged.

Epstein denied the charges and faced up to 45 years in prison if convicted.&nbsp;

Last month, Epstein was found unconscious with marks on his neck after a possible suicide attempt.&nbsp;

He was put on suicide watch for six days before being returned to his cell in a high-security section of the prison, the Times has reported.

"Pedophiles facing federal criminal charges are at high risk for suicide," tweeted Rod Rosenstein, the former US deputy attorney general.

"Detained paedophiles require special attention. Stopping people from harming themselves is difficult."

'Unfounded conspiracy theories'

Epstein -- whose friends included Donald Trump, former president Bill Clinton and Britain's Prince Andrew -- had been convicted in 2008 in a Florida state court of paying young girls for sexual massages at his Palm Beach mansion.

Those men have all denied knowing anything about Epstein's alleged crimes.

The two thousand pages of previously sealed court documents released Friday focused on testimony by a woman who claimed she was Epstein's "sex slave."

Virginia Giuffre detailed new allegations against Epstein and his high-profile acquaintances.&nbsp;

"Some of wealthiest people in the world committed a horrible crime. If they think for a second that they got away with it because Jeffrey Epstein is dead, they're dead WRONG," tweeted New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, as prosecutors pledged to pursue the indictment.

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While a full investigation into how the federal government let this happen needs to be launched IMMEDIATELY, we won’t stop fighting for justice for every single victim.
— Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYCMayor/status/1160239963742638086?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 10, 2019</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-retweets-conspiracy-theory-about-bill-clinton-amid-outcry-on-jeffrey-epsteins-death-242088">Trump weighed in on Saturday</a>, retweeting a conspiracy theory alleging -- without any evidence whatsoever -- that Bill Clinton may be connected to Epstein's death.

"This is another example of our president using this position of public trust to attack his political enemies with unfounded conspiracy theories," Beto O'Rourke, another Democrat running for president, told CNN.

Senator Cory Booker, also in the 2020 race, described Trump's retweet as "more recklessness" and "dangerous."

Trump aide Kellyanne Conway, asked on "Fox News Sunday" about her boss's retweet, said that "the president just wants everything to be investigated."

Epstein avoided a lengthy jail sentence when facing the charges in Florida over a decade ago.&nbsp;

He served just 13 months under a secret plea deal struck with the then federal prosecutor in the state, Alex Acosta, who was forced to resign as US labor secretary last month over the issue.

Alleged victims were hoping for more justice this time around.

"I really wanted him to... be put in jail and have to sit there and think about what it is he exactly did to so many people," one accuser, Michelle Licata, told ABC's "This Week."

Outrage and intrigue over the apparent suicide in prison of well-connected accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein soared Sunday as US lawmakers pushed for answers, including whether "criminal acts" played a role in his death.

Outrage and intrigue over the apparent suicide in prison of well-connected accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein soared Sunday as US lawmakers pushed for answers, including whether "criminal acts" played a role in his death. Epstein, a convicted paedophile who hobnobbed with countless politicians and celebrities over the years, was found dead in his cell Saturday while awaiting trial on federal charges he trafficked underage girls for sex. The discovery came a day after a court released documents in which one of Epstein's alleged victims claimed she was forced to have sex with well-known American political and business personalities. They have all denied the allegations. Epstein's death in a high-security New York jail, an apparent suicide that came just weeks after an earlier possible attempt on his own life, meant he should have been under close watch and has fueled anger and a conspiracy theory frenzy. Watch: Jeffrey Epstein 'Found Dead In Cell' × "These survivors deserved a day in court. They deserved justice," Democratic Senator and 2020 presidential candidate Kirsten Gillibrand of New York said Sunday. "It is a shame that he committed suicide," she told CBS's "Face the Nation." New York's chief medical examiner Barbara Sampson said Sunday that an autopsy had been completed, but the determination of the cause of death was "pending further information at this time." The procedure was observed by an outside pathologist at the request of Epstein's representatives, she added. Cellmate reportedly moved US Attorney General Bill Barr has instructed the Justice Department's inspector general to probe Epstein's death, saying it "raises serious questions that must be answered." The FBI is also investigating. The New York Times reported Sunday that guards were supposed to check Epstein every half hour but that procedure was not followed the night before he was found, citing an unnamed law enforcement official. The jail had also transferred his cellmate, leaving him alone, the Times said, citing two officials. Epstein, 66, had been charged with one count of sex trafficking of minors and one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of minors. Prosecutors said Epstein sexually exploited dozens of underage teens, some as young as 14, at his homes in Manhattan and Palm Beach, Florida, between 2002 and 2005. The young women were paid hundreds of dollars in cash to massage him, perform sexual acts and to recruit other girls, prosecutors alleged. Epstein denied the charges and faced up to 45 years in prison if convicted. Last month, Epstein was found unconscious with marks on his neck after a possible suicide attempt. He was put on suicide watch for six days before being returned to his cell in a high-security section of the prison, the Times has reported. "Pedophiles facing federal criminal charges are at high risk for suicide," tweeted Rod Rosenstein, the former US deputy attorney general. "Detained paedophiles require special attention. Stopping people from harming themselves is difficult." 'Unfounded conspiracy theories' Epstein -- whose friends included Donald Trump, former president Bill Clinton and Britain's Prince Andrew -- had been convicted in 2008 in a Florida state court of paying young girls for sexual massages at his Palm Beach mansion. Those men have all denied knowing anything about Epstein's alleged crimes. The two thousand pages of previously sealed court documents released Friday focused on testimony by a woman who claimed she was Epstein's "sex slave." Virginia Giuffre detailed new allegations against Epstein and his high-profile acquaintances. "Some of wealthiest people in the world committed a horrible crime. If they think for a second that they got away with it because Jeffrey Epstein is dead, they're dead WRONG," tweeted New York Mayor Bill de Blasio, as prosecutors pledged to pursue the indictment. While a full investigation into how the federal government let this happen needs to be launched IMMEDIATELY, we won’t stop fighting for justice for every single victim. — Mayor Bill de Blasio (@NYCMayor) August 10, 2019 × Trump weighed in on Saturday, retweeting a conspiracy theory alleging -- without any evidence whatsoever -- that Bill Clinton may be connected to Epstein's death. "This is another example of our president using this position of public trust to attack his political enemies with unfounded conspiracy theories," Beto O'Rourke, another Democrat running for president, told CNN. Senator Cory Booker, also in the 2020 race, described Trump's retweet as "more recklessness" and "dangerous." Trump aide Kellyanne Conway, asked on "Fox News Sunday" about her boss's retweet, said that "the president just wants everything to be investigated." Epstein avoided a lengthy jail sentence when facing the charges in Florida over a decade ago. He served just 13 months under a secret plea deal struck with the then federal prosecutor in the state, Alex Acosta, who was forced to resign as US labor secretary last month over the issue. Alleged victims were hoping for more justice this time around. "I really wanted him to... be put in jail and have to sit there and think about what it is he exactly did to so many people," one accuser, Michelle Licata, told ABC's "This Week."

As victims express outrage over sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein's death, US lawmakers push for investigation for any foul play

Rouhani says that Iran will proceed on the basis of reciprocity. If the U. S lifts all sanctions on Iran and asks for talks with Iran, Tehran would not be found wanting.. but if the U.S. wages a war with Iran, he shall find Tehran ready -- for the mother of all wars!

The West Asia Post: Iran warns of the mother of all wars

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima.

Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer.

The 30-year-old's protest on Saturday -- which she told US media was aimed at "extreme injustice" - echoed the iconic raised fist protest of US sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico.

On Friday, two-time Olympian fencer Race Imboden, 26, set the tone after 'taking a knee' as his team celebrated gold in the team foil event.

He was the latest US sports star to follow NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick,&nbsp;whose kneeling protest during the US national anthem before NFL games in 2016 became a national issue.

"We must call for change. This week I am honored to represent Team USA at the Pan Am Games, taking home Gold and Bronze," tweeted Imboden.

"My pride however has been cut short by the multiple shortcomings of the country I hold so dear to my heart. Racism, Gun Control, mistreatment of immigrants and a president who spreads hate are at the top of a long list.&nbsp;

"I chose to sacrifice my moment today at the top of the podium to call attention to issues that I believe need to be addressed. I encourage others to please use your platforms for empowerment and change."

Imboden had already staged a similar kneeling protest at the 2017 Fencing World Cup in Egypt.

Mark Jones, vice president of communications for the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), told ESPN that the governing body was considering what sanctions it might impose.

"Every athlete competing at the 2019 Pan American Games commits to terms of eligibility, including to refrain from demonstrations that are political in nature," Jones said in a statement to the US sports network.&nbsp;

"In these cases, the athletes didn't adhere to the commitment they made to the organizing committee and the USOPC.

"We respect their rights to express their viewpoints, but we are disappointed that they chose not to honor their commitment. Our leadership are reviewing what consequences may result."

Current athletes aren't the only ones who have used the Pan Am Games to call out Trump, with Olympic athletics legend Carl Lewis -- attending at the invitation of Lima Organizers -- also weighing in.

"We have a president who is racist and a misogynist, who doesn't value anybody but himself," said Lewis, who was asked to weigh in on the issue of gender equality in sport.

"My mother was a pioneer. My parents were teachers and they taught us that everyone deserves the same opportunities," said Lewis, who counts nine Olympic gold medals among his 10 total.

"Of course I'm for (equal pay) in athletics. We shouldn't even be talking about it."

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima. Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer.

Two US gold medal winners could face sanctions after staging dramatic podium protests against US President Donald Trump at the Pan American Games in Lima. Gwen Berry stunned the crowd when she raised a clenched right fist and bowed her head as the US national anthem closed her gold medal ceremony for the women's hammer. The 30-year-old's protest on Saturday -- which she told US media was aimed at "extreme injustice" - echoed the iconic raised fist protest of US sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos at the 1968 Olympics in Mexico. On Friday, two-time Olympian fencer Race Imboden, 26, set the tone after 'taking a knee' as his team celebrated gold in the team foil event. He was the latest US sports star to follow NFL quarterback Colin Kaepernick, whose kneeling protest during the US national anthem before NFL games in 2016 became a national issue. "We must call for change. This week I am honored to represent Team USA at the Pan Am Games, taking home Gold and Bronze," tweeted Imboden. "My pride however has been cut short by the multiple shortcomings of the country I hold so dear to my heart. Racism, Gun Control, mistreatment of immigrants and a president who spreads hate are at the top of a long list. "I chose to sacrifice my moment today at the top of the podium to call attention to issues that I believe need to be addressed. I encourage others to please use your platforms for empowerment and change." Imboden had already staged a similar kneeling protest at the 2017 Fencing World Cup in Egypt. Mark Jones, vice president of communications for the US Olympic and Paralympic Committee (USOPC), told ESPN that the governing body was considering what sanctions it might impose. "Every athlete competing at the 2019 Pan American Games commits to terms of eligibility, including to refrain from demonstrations that are political in nature," Jones said in a statement to the US sports network. "In these cases, the athletes didn't adhere to the commitment they made to the organizing committee and the USOPC. "We respect their rights to express their viewpoints, but we are disappointed that they chose not to honor their commitment. Our leadership are reviewing what consequences may result." Current athletes aren't the only ones who have used the Pan Am Games to call out Trump, with Olympic athletics legend Carl Lewis -- attending at the invitation of Lima Organizers -- also weighing in. "We have a president who is racist and a misogynist, who doesn't value anybody but himself," said Lewis, who was asked to weigh in on the issue of gender equality in sport. "My mother was a pioneer. My parents were teachers and they taught us that everyone deserves the same opportunities," said Lewis, who counts nine Olympic gold medals among his 10 total. "Of course I'm for (equal pay) in athletics. We shouldn't even be talking about it."

US gold medallists at Pan American Games face sanctions over anti-Trump podium protests

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Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents in northwest Syria killed 70 combatants on Saturday, as government forces continued to nibble away at territory held by its opponents, a war monitor said. &nbsp;

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Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which has been caught in the crossfires of the Washington-Beijing trade war, on Saturday unveiled a new smart television, the first product to use its own operating system.

&nbsp;

China 'badly' wants to make deal with US and may want a Democrat to beat me: Donald Trump After the International Monetary Fund (IMF) report of China's economic slowdown due to trade tariff imposed by the Trump administration, US President Donald Trump on Saturday took a swipe at China saying it wants to "badly" chalk out an agreement with his country.

China 'badly' wants to make deal with US and may want a Democrat to beat me: Donald Trump After the International Monetary Fund (IMF) report of China's economic slowdown due to trade tariff imposed by the Trump administration, US President Donald Trump on Saturday took a swipe at China saying it wants to "badly" chalk out an agreement with his country. Trump retweets conspiracy theory about Bill Clinton, amid outcry on Jeffrey Epstein's death US financier Jeffrey Epstein, awaiting trial on charges he trafficked underage girls for sex, was found dead in jail Saturday of an apparent suicide, triggering outcry over how the high-profile detainee could die in custody. If it comes to hard Brexit, British would be the big losers: European Union's Jean-Claude Juncker tells UK A no-deal Brexit would hurt Britain more than the rest of Europe no matter how much Prime Minister Boris Johnson's government pretends otherwise, outgoing European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker said in remarks published on Saturday. Clashes kill 70 combatants in northwest Syria: Report Clashes between regime loyalists and insurgents in northwest Syria killed 70 combatants on Saturday, as government forces continued to nibble away at territory held by its opponents, a war monitor said. Huawei launches first product with own operating system Chinese telecom giant Huawei, which has been caught in the crossfires of the Washington-Beijing trade war, on Saturday unveiled a new smart television, the first product to use its own operating system.

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