Hong Kong protesters torched a pile of barricade on Saturday (August 31) after police fired tear gas and water cannon to disperse thousands of protesters on the streets.

Barricade burnt as Hong Kong protest heats up

Telegram, a popular encrypted messaging app, will allow users to cloak their telephone numbers to safeguard <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/million-march-huge-hong-kong-protest-against-china-extradition-law-225733">Hong Kong protesters against </a>monitoring by authorities, according to a person with direct knowledge of the effort.

The update to Telegram, planned for release over the next few days, will allow protesters to prevent mainland Chinese and Hong Kong authorities from discovering their identities in the app's large group chats.

Hong Kong's Security Bureau told Reuters it has "been acting responsibly to deal with the current difficult time with a view to restoring the public order".&nbsp;

It declined to comment about whether it had tried to identify protesters by using the Telegram app.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-violated-one-country-two-systems-bottom-line-china-foreign-ministry-237656">China’s Foreign Ministry</a>, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) and the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside of business hours.

Thousands of Hong Kong protesters take their cues from more than 100 groups on Telegram, according to protest organisers and supporters.

Protesters use encrypted apps like Telegram to mobilize swiftly through multiple group chats, with less risk of police infiltration, an in-depth report published by Reuters earlier this month said.

The groups are used to post everything from news on upcoming protests to tips on dousing tear gas canisters fired by the police to the identities of suspected undercover police and the access codes to buildings in Hong Kong where protesters can hide.

Some protesters expressed concern that authorities could use the movement's reliance on Telegram to monitor and arrest organisers.&nbsp;

Telegram chat groups used to organise public protests are often accessible to anyone and participants use pseudonyms.

Telegram allows users to search for other users by uploading phone numbers.&nbsp;

This function allows a new user to quickly learn whether those in a phone's contact book are already using the app, the group said.

Some protesters say they believe Chinese or Hong Kong security officials have exploited the function by uploading large quantities of phone numbers.&nbsp;

Reuters was unable to determine if this has occurred.

The app automatically matches phone numbers with the user names in the group. Authorities then only need to request the owners of the phone numbers from the local telecom service to learn the users' true identities.

Telegram has detected evidence that Hong Kong or mainland Chinese authorities may have uploaded numbers to identify protesters, said the person with direct knowledge of the situation.&nbsp;

But it is unclear whether authorities have successfully used this tactic to locate protesters.

Telegram did not respond to a request for comment.

A group of Hong Kong engineers who posted their findings on an online forum earlier this month also said that a feature in Telegram's design may have allowed mainland Chinese orHong Kong authorities to learn the real identities of users.

The fix Telegram is working on would allow users to disable matching by phone number.

&nbsp;That option represents a balance between making it easy for users to find their contacts and the privacy needs of those who rely on the app for protection against state security agents, the source said.

But wide adoption of the optional security setting would make the app far harder to use for the vast majority of its more than 200 million consumers, who rely on uploading phone contacts to identify friends and family members on the app, the source said.

In June, Telegram chief executive Pavel Durov said the messaging service experienced a “state actor-sized” cyber attack and pointed to China as its likely country of origin.

He provided no further details but said the attack coincided with protests in Hong Kong. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) did not respond to a faxed request for comment at the time.

The move by Telegram comes as Hong Kong police arrested a number of prominent activists and three lawmakers on Friday. Nearly 900 people have been arrested since the demonstrations began three months ago.

Telegram, a popular encrypted messaging app, will allow users to cloak their telephone numbers to safeguard Hong Kong protesters against monitoring by authorities, according to a person with direct knowledge of the effort.

Telegram, a popular encrypted messaging app, will allow users to cloak their telephone numbers to safeguard Hong Kong protesters against monitoring by authorities, according to a person with direct knowledge of the effort. The update to Telegram, planned for release over the next few days, will allow protesters to prevent mainland Chinese and Hong Kong authorities from discovering their identities in the app's large group chats. Hong Kong's Security Bureau told Reuters it has "been acting responsibly to deal with the current difficult time with a view to restoring the public order". It declined to comment about whether it had tried to identify protesters by using the Telegram app. China’s Foreign Ministry, the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) and the Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office did not immediately respond to a request for comment outside of business hours. Thousands of Hong Kong protesters take their cues from more than 100 groups on Telegram, according to protest organisers and supporters. Protesters use encrypted apps like Telegram to mobilize swiftly through multiple group chats, with less risk of police infiltration, an in-depth report published by Reuters earlier this month said. The groups are used to post everything from news on upcoming protests to tips on dousing tear gas canisters fired by the police to the identities of suspected undercover police and the access codes to buildings in Hong Kong where protesters can hide. Some protesters expressed concern that authorities could use the movement's reliance on Telegram to monitor and arrest organisers. Telegram chat groups used to organise public protests are often accessible to anyone and participants use pseudonyms. Telegram allows users to search for other users by uploading phone numbers. This function allows a new user to quickly learn whether those in a phone's contact book are already using the app, the group said. Some protesters say they believe Chinese or Hong Kong security officials have exploited the function by uploading large quantities of phone numbers. Reuters was unable to determine if this has occurred. The app automatically matches phone numbers with the user names in the group. Authorities then only need to request the owners of the phone numbers from the local telecom service to learn the users' true identities. Telegram has detected evidence that Hong Kong or mainland Chinese authorities may have uploaded numbers to identify protesters, said the person with direct knowledge of the situation. But it is unclear whether authorities have successfully used this tactic to locate protesters. Telegram did not respond to a request for comment. A group of Hong Kong engineers who posted their findings on an online forum earlier this month also said that a feature in Telegram's design may have allowed mainland Chinese orHong Kong authorities to learn the real identities of users. The fix Telegram is working on would allow users to disable matching by phone number. That option represents a balance between making it easy for users to find their contacts and the privacy needs of those who rely on the app for protection against state security agents, the source said. But wide adoption of the optional security setting would make the app far harder to use for the vast majority of its more than 200 million consumers, who rely on uploading phone contacts to identify friends and family members on the app, the source said. In June, Telegram chief executive Pavel Durov said the messaging service experienced a “state actor-sized” cyber attack and pointed to China as its likely country of origin. He provided no further details but said the attack coincided with protests in Hong Kong. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) did not respond to a faxed request for comment at the time. The move by Telegram comes as Hong Kong police arrested a number of prominent activists and three lawmakers on Friday. Nearly 900 people have been arrested since the demonstrations began three months ago.

Messaging app Telegram moves to protect the identity of Hong Kong protester

Chinese troll accounts spreading doubts about Hong Kong protests has been taken down. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: Chinese troll accounts spreading doubts about Hong Kong protests taken down

Hong Kong City's chief executive Carrie Lam offers talks with peaceful protesters. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protests: City's chief executive offers talks with peaceful protesters

China slammed Taiwan Monday for offering asylum to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-facing-biggest-crisis-since-handover-senior-china-official-241270">Hong Kong people facing prosecution</a> for involvement in anti-government protests, telling the island's leaders to "stop meddling" in the territory's affairs.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/fights-break-out-as-taiwans-president-tsai-visits-new-york-235282">Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen</a> voiced support last month for granting asylum to some Hong Kong protesters, with the semi-autonomous financial hub during an unprecedented political crisis.

Ma Xiaoguang, a spokesperson for the Chinese cabinet's Taiwan Affairs Office, warned Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party to "stop undermining the rule of law in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs, and stop indulging criminals in any way".

Taiwanese authorities "ignore the facts and reverse black and white, not only masking the crimes of a small number of Hong Kong militants but also fuelling their arrogance for destroying Hong Kong", said Ma.

Last month after dozens of Hong Kong activists reportedly involved in an unprecedented storming of the city's parliament fled to Taiwan, the Taipei said it would assist those seeking sanctuary.

"They openly claim to provide (protesters) asylum, making Taiwan into a 'haven sheltering criminals', where does this put the safety and welfare of the Taiwan people?" asked Ma.&nbsp;

Beijing regards Taiwan as a part of China awaiting reunification, but the island is a self-ruled democracy.

The protest movement in Hong Kong was sparked by widespread opposition to a plan for allowing extraditions to the Chinese mainland but has since morphed into a broader call for democratic rights.

Taiwan's history of providing sanctuary to Chinese dissidents has been mixed.&nbsp;

The island still does not recognise the legal concept of asylum but has, on occasions, allowed dissidents to stay on long-term visas.

Ties with Beijing have soured since Tsai came to power in 2016 because her party refuses to recognise the idea that Taiwan is part of "one China".

China slammed Taiwan Monday for offering asylum to Hong Kong people facing prosecution for involvement in anti-government protests, telling the island's leaders to "stop meddling" in the territory's affairs.

China slammed Taiwan Monday for offering asylum to Hong Kong people facing prosecution for involvement in anti-government protests, telling the island's leaders to "stop meddling" in the territory's affairs. Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen voiced support last month for granting asylum to some Hong Kong protesters, with the semi-autonomous financial hub during an unprecedented political crisis. Ma Xiaoguang, a spokesperson for the Chinese cabinet's Taiwan Affairs Office, warned Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party to "stop undermining the rule of law in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, stop meddling in Hong Kong affairs, and stop indulging criminals in any way". Taiwanese authorities "ignore the facts and reverse black and white, not only masking the crimes of a small number of Hong Kong militants but also fuelling their arrogance for destroying Hong Kong", said Ma. Last month after dozens of Hong Kong activists reportedly involved in an unprecedented storming of the city's parliament fled to Taiwan, the Taipei said it would assist those seeking sanctuary. "They openly claim to provide (protesters) asylum, making Taiwan into a 'haven sheltering criminals', where does this put the safety and welfare of the Taiwan people?" asked Ma. Beijing regards Taiwan as a part of China awaiting reunification, but the island is a self-ruled democracy. The protest movement in Hong Kong was sparked by widespread opposition to a plan for allowing extraditions to the Chinese mainland but has since morphed into a broader call for democratic rights. Taiwan's history of providing sanctuary to Chinese dissidents has been mixed. The island still does not recognise the legal concept of asylum but has, on occasions, allowed dissidents to stay on long-term visas. Ties with Beijing have soured since Tsai came to power in 2016 because her party refuses to recognise the idea that Taiwan is part of "one China".

China lashes out at Taiwan over offer to Hong Kong protesters

US President Donald Trump on Sunday warned China that carrying out a Tiananmen Square-style crackdown on Hong Kong <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/amid-mounting-violence-and-warnings-from-china-hong-kong-protesters-flood-streets-in-peaceful-march-243848">pro-democracy protesters</a> would harm <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-and-china-seeking-to-revive-trade-talks-trump-advisor-243936">trade talks</a> between the two countries.

"I think it'd be very hard to deal if they do violence, I mean, if it's another Tiananmen Square," Trump told reporters in New Jersey. "I think it's a very hard thing to do if there's violence."

The months-long trade dispute between the US and China has been blamed for setting world financial markets on edge amid signs of a possible global economic slowdown.

Trump's comments came as Washington and Beijing look to revive pivotal talks aimed at ending their trade war.

Phone calls between both countries' deputies are planned for the next 10 days, and if those are successful, negotiations could resume, Trump's chief economic advisor Larry Kudlow said on Sunday.

Hong Kong has meanwhile been dealing with more than two months of protests and on Sunday saw a crowd that organizers said numbered some 1.7 million people march peacefully in the city despite rising unrest and stark warnings from Beijing.

Chinese state media has run images of military personnel and armoured personnel carriers in Shenzhen, across the border from the semi-autonomous city.

In the bloody 1989 crackdown in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, China deployed tanks to end student-led protests, resulting in an estimated death toll of hundreds if not thousands.

If such a situation was repeated in Hong Kong, "I think there'd be... tremendous political sentiment not to do something," Trump said, referring to the trade negotiations with China.

Creeping authoritarianism

Under a deal signed with Britain, China agreed to allow Hong Kong to keep its unique freedoms when the former crown colony was handed back in 1997.

But many Hong Kongers feel those freedoms are being chipped away, especially since China's hardline president Xi Jinping came to power.

Trump stopped short of endorsing the protesters, saying, "I'd love to see it worked out in a humane fashion," and calling on Xi to negotiate with the dissidents.

Last week, China's state-run daily The Global Times said there "won't be a repeat" of Tiananmen Square in a rare reference to the crackdown.

Analysts say any intervention in Hong Kong by Chinese security forces would be a disaster for China's reputation and economy.

The weeks of demonstrations have plunged the financial hub into crisis, with images of masked, black-clad protesters engulfed by tear gas during street battles against riot police stunning a city once renowned for its stability.

The unrest was sparked by widespread opposition to a plan for allowing extraditions to the Chinese mainland but has since morphed into a broader call for democratic rights in the semi-autonomous city.

Sunday's march billed as a return to the peaceful origins of the leaderless protest movement, was one of the largest rallies since the protests began about three months ago, according to organizers the Civil Human Rights Front.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday warned China that carrying out a Tiananmen Square-style crackdown on Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters would harm trade talks between the two countries.

US President Donald Trump on Sunday warned China that carrying out a Tiananmen Square-style crackdown on Hong Kong pro-democracy protesters would harm trade talks between the two countries. "I think it'd be very hard to deal if they do violence, I mean, if it's another Tiananmen Square," Trump told reporters in New Jersey. "I think it's a very hard thing to do if there's violence." The months-long trade dispute between the US and China has been blamed for setting world financial markets on edge amid signs of a possible global economic slowdown. Trump's comments came as Washington and Beijing look to revive pivotal talks aimed at ending their trade war. Phone calls between both countries' deputies are planned for the next 10 days, and if those are successful, negotiations could resume, Trump's chief economic advisor Larry Kudlow said on Sunday. Hong Kong has meanwhile been dealing with more than two months of protests and on Sunday saw a crowd that organizers said numbered some 1.7 million people march peacefully in the city despite rising unrest and stark warnings from Beijing. Chinese state media has run images of military personnel and armoured personnel carriers in Shenzhen, across the border from the semi-autonomous city. In the bloody 1989 crackdown in Beijing's Tiananmen Square, China deployed tanks to end student-led protests, resulting in an estimated death toll of hundreds if not thousands. If such a situation was repeated in Hong Kong, "I think there'd be... tremendous political sentiment not to do something," Trump said, referring to the trade negotiations with China. Creeping authoritarianism Under a deal signed with Britain, China agreed to allow Hong Kong to keep its unique freedoms when the former crown colony was handed back in 1997. But many Hong Kongers feel those freedoms are being chipped away, especially since China's hardline president Xi Jinping came to power. Trump stopped short of endorsing the protesters, saying, "I'd love to see it worked out in a humane fashion," and calling on Xi to negotiate with the dissidents. Last week, China's state-run daily The Global Times said there "won't be a repeat" of Tiananmen Square in a rare reference to the crackdown. Analysts say any intervention in Hong Kong by Chinese security forces would be a disaster for China's reputation and economy. The weeks of demonstrations have plunged the financial hub into crisis, with images of masked, black-clad protesters engulfed by tear gas during street battles against riot police stunning a city once renowned for its stability. The unrest was sparked by widespread opposition to a plan for allowing extraditions to the Chinese mainland but has since morphed into a broader call for democratic rights in the semi-autonomous city. Sunday's march billed as a return to the peaceful origins of the leaderless protest movement, was one of the largest rallies since the protests began about three months ago, according to organizers the Civil Human Rights Front.

Tiananmen Square-style crackdown in Hong Kong would harm trade deal with China: Donald Trump

A sea of democracy activists once more <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bruised-but-unbowed-hong-kong-police-say-no-need-for-china-intervention-243288">flooded the streets of Hong Kong</a> in a defiant show Sunday to the city's leaders that their movement still pulls wide public support, despite mounting violence and increasingly stark warnings from Beijing.

Ten weeks of demonstrations have plunged the financial hub into crisis, with images of masked black-clad protesters engulfed by tear gas during street battles against riot police stunning a city once renowned for its stability.&nbsp;

Communist-ruled mainland China has taken an increasingly hardline tone towards the protesters, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-will-not-sit-by-if-hong-kong-crisis-worsens-says-chinese-envoy-to-uk-243157">decrying the "terrorist-like" actio</a>ns of a violent hardcore minority among the demonstrators.

Despite the near-nightly clashes with police, the movement has won few concessions from Beijing or the city's unelected leadership.

The spiralling violence, which last week saw protesters paralyse the city's airport, has tarnished a campaign that had taken pride in its peaceful intent and unpredictability -- which demonstrators have tagged with the slogan 'Be Water'.&nbsp;

Also read: Teachers joins protests in Hong Kong

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Organisers of Sunday's rally, which started at the city's Victoria Park, said it was an attempt to wrestle the narrative of the protest back to its peaceful origins.&nbsp;

It is a "rational, non-violent" demonstration, according to organisers the Civil Human Rights Front, the driving force behind record-breaking rallies in June and July that saw hundreds of thousands of people hit the streets.

Protesters flouted a police order not to march from the park, pouring across the heart of Hong Kong island despite torrential rain.

Calling it a "flowing rally", one protester said the leaderless movement was constantly adapting to outfox the police.

"We keep learning, the movement has evolved and become more fluid," the 25-year-old recent graduate, who gave his name only as Lo, told AFP.

Peace or violence?

China's propaganda apparatus has seized on the weeks of violence, with state media churning out a deluge of damning articles, pictures and videos.

State media also ran images of military personnel and armoured personnel carriers across the border in Shenzhen, prompting the United States to warn Beijing against sending in troops.

Analysts say any intervention by Chinese security forces would be a reputational and economic disaster for China.

But Hong Kong's police force are under intense pressure, stretched by flashmob protests and criticised for perceived heavy-handed policing including the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and beating demonstrators -- incidents that have pinballed across social media.

"I think the way police have dealt with this is absolutely out of order. You can make your own judgement based on the many videos out there," protester James Leung told AFP.

Opinions among the protesters have diverged over the billowing violence, which has seen hardcore protesters using rocks, Molotov cocktails and slingshots against the police.

Some say the violence has driven the pro-democracy movement into an uncomfortable direction.

"There are some expressing extreme views," rally-goer Ray Cheng, 30, told AFP.&nbsp;

"But we have tried many times with peaceful approaches... I really hope the government can listen to us."

Many among Sunday's rally-goers carried rucksacks stuffed with protest paraphernalia -- laser pens, gas masks, googles and helmets.

"The consensus in online forums is that today is 'a peaceful, rational' gathering," said a 30-year-old identifying himself only as Man.

"We have our gear with us, but we hope not to use it."

A Hong Kong government spokesperson praised the police for handling "illegal acts with tolerance" and appealed to the protesters to "express their views in a peaceful and rational manner".

Unprecedented crisis&nbsp;

Hong Kong's unprecedented political crisis was sparked by opposition to a plan to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland.&nbsp;

But protests have since morphed into a wider call for democratic rights in the semi-autonomous city.

Under a deal signed with Britain, authoritarian China agreed to allow Hong Kong to keep its unique freedoms when it was handed back in 1997.

But many Hong Kongers feel those freedoms are being chipped away, especially since China's hardline president Xi Jinping came to power.

Beyond suspending the extradition bill, Beijing and city leader Carrie Lam have shown no desire to meet key demands such as an inquiry into police violence, the complete withdrawal of the bill and an amnesty.

Beijing has turned the screws on Hong Kong's businesses, pressuring them to toe the line and condemn the protesters.

On Friday, Cathay Pacific announced the shock resignation of CEO Rupert Hogg after the carrier was excoriated by Beijing because some staff supported the pro-democracy protests.

A sea of democracy activists once more flooded the streets of Hong Kong in a defiant show Sunday to the city's leaders that their movement still pulls wide public support, despite mounting violence and increasingly stark warnings from Beijing.

A sea of democracy activists once more flooded the streets of Hong Kong in a defiant show Sunday to the city's leaders that their movement still pulls wide public support, despite mounting violence and increasingly stark warnings from Beijing. Ten weeks of demonstrations have plunged the financial hub into crisis, with images of masked black-clad protesters engulfed by tear gas during street battles against riot police stunning a city once renowned for its stability. Communist-ruled mainland China has taken an increasingly hardline tone towards the protesters, decrying the "terrorist-like" actions of a violent hardcore minority among the demonstrators. Despite the near-nightly clashes with police, the movement has won few concessions from Beijing or the city's unelected leadership. The spiralling violence, which last week saw protesters paralyse the city's airport, has tarnished a campaign that had taken pride in its peaceful intent and unpredictability -- which demonstrators have tagged with the slogan 'Be Water'. Also read: Teachers joins protests in Hong Kong × Organisers of Sunday's rally, which started at the city's Victoria Park, said it was an attempt to wrestle the narrative of the protest back to its peaceful origins. It is a "rational, non-violent" demonstration, according to organisers the Civil Human Rights Front, the driving force behind record-breaking rallies in June and July that saw hundreds of thousands of people hit the streets. Protesters flouted a police order not to march from the park, pouring across the heart of Hong Kong island despite torrential rain. Calling it a "flowing rally", one protester said the leaderless movement was constantly adapting to outfox the police. "We keep learning, the movement has evolved and become more fluid," the 25-year-old recent graduate, who gave his name only as Lo, told AFP. Peace or violence? China's propaganda apparatus has seized on the weeks of violence, with state media churning out a deluge of damning articles, pictures and videos. State media also ran images of military personnel and armoured personnel carriers across the border in Shenzhen, prompting the United States to warn Beijing against sending in troops. Analysts say any intervention by Chinese security forces would be a reputational and economic disaster for China. But Hong Kong's police force are under intense pressure, stretched by flashmob protests and criticised for perceived heavy-handed policing including the use of tear gas, rubber bullets and beating demonstrators -- incidents that have pinballed across social media. "I think the way police have dealt with this is absolutely out of order. You can make your own judgement based on the many videos out there," protester James Leung told AFP. Opinions among the protesters have diverged over the billowing violence, which has seen hardcore protesters using rocks, Molotov cocktails and slingshots against the police. Some say the violence has driven the pro-democracy movement into an uncomfortable direction. "There are some expressing extreme views," rally-goer Ray Cheng, 30, told AFP. "But we have tried many times with peaceful approaches... I really hope the government can listen to us." Many among Sunday's rally-goers carried rucksacks stuffed with protest paraphernalia -- laser pens, gas masks, googles and helmets. "The consensus in online forums is that today is 'a peaceful, rational' gathering," said a 30-year-old identifying himself only as Man. "We have our gear with us, but we hope not to use it." A Hong Kong government spokesperson praised the police for handling "illegal acts with tolerance" and appealed to the protesters to "express their views in a peaceful and rational manner". Unprecedented crisis Hong Kong's unprecedented political crisis was sparked by opposition to a plan to allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland. But protests have since morphed into a wider call for democratic rights in the semi-autonomous city. Under a deal signed with Britain, authoritarian China agreed to allow Hong Kong to keep its unique freedoms when it was handed back in 1997. But many Hong Kongers feel those freedoms are being chipped away, especially since China's hardline president Xi Jinping came to power. Beyond suspending the extradition bill, Beijing and city leader Carrie Lam have shown no desire to meet key demands such as an inquiry into police violence, the complete withdrawal of the bill and an amnesty. Beijing has turned the screws on Hong Kong's businesses, pressuring them to toe the line and condemn the protesters. On Friday, Cathay Pacific announced the shock resignation of CEO Rupert Hogg after the carrier was excoriated by Beijing because some staff supported the pro-democracy protests.

Amid mounting violence and warnings from China, Hong Kong protesters flood streets in 'peaceful' march

Hundreds of Hong Kong teachers and supporters on Saturday braved heavy downpour as they took to the streets to begin yet another weekend of anti-government protests in the former British colony. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Hundreds take part in teachers' rally braving downpour

After gathering peacefully in the Central business district, they marched on the Government House residence of Hong Kong’s embattled leader Carrie Lam.

Teachers joins protests in Hong Kong

Hong Kong remains tense as weekend protests begin. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Another weekend of protests begin

Hong Kong airport re-opened on Tuesday after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/flights-cancelled-in-hong-kong-airport-as-protests-escalate-242407">a rally by thousands of pro-democracy protesters </a>triggered an unprecedented shutdown, but hundreds of flights were still listed as cancelled.

The abrupt closure marked a new low in a 10-week crisis that has seen <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/china-slams-hong-kong-violence-as-terrorism-airport-cancels-all-flight-operations-due-to-protests-242394">millions of people take to Hong Kong's streets</a> in the biggest challenge to Chinese rule of the semi-autonomous city since its 1997 handover from Britain.

The protests on Monday were driven by anger over alleged police brutality, with demonstrators claiming one woman had lost an eye at a weekend rally and video showing tear gas being used against them in a subway station.

But the protests have led to rising anger from authorities in Beijing, who on Monday described some of the violent demonstrations as "terrorism".&nbsp;

State-run media on Monday also showed armoured personnel carriers assembling at a mainland city just across the border from Hong Kong.

Early Tuesday, passengers with luggage were being checked in at the departures hall and information boards showed several flights were boarding or about to depart.

But the woes at the airport remained far from over, with a massive backlog of flights to clear and activists calling for another protest there on Tuesday afternoon.

Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong's flagship airline, listed more than 200 flights as still being cancelled on Tuesday morning.

It an advisory posted on its website at 6:00 am (2200 GMT Monday), Cathay said passengers urged customers to postpone non-essential travel from Hong Kong.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/equipped-with-surveillance-cameras-hong-kong-police-unveils-water-cannon-after-new-protests-242370">protests have infuriated Beijing</a>, which described some of the violent demonstrations as "terrorism".

Washington overnight urged all sides to refrain from violence, as the crisis sparked by a bill to allow extradition to mainland China continues with no apparent end in sight.

Watch: Protests continue at Hong Kong Airport

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'An eye for an eye'

On Tuesday morning, only a handful of protesters remained in the airport. But fears of a police operation to clear the facility overnight proved unfounded, with demonstrators simply leaving by themselves.

Many of the posters and artwork they had hung throughout the facility during the hours-long rally had been taken down, but graffiti -- some reading "an eye for an eye" -- could still be seen in several places.

The protesters adopted the slogan after a woman suffered a serious facial injury that reportedly caused her to lose the vision in one eye at a demonstration that turned violent on Sunday night.

The demonstrators accuse police of causing the injury by firing a bean-bag round and cite the case as evidence of what they say has been an excessive and disproportionate response by police to their protests.

The activists have called on their supporters to return to the airport later on Tuesday, though it was unclear whether authorities would allow that to happen.

The protests that began in opposition to a bill allowing extradition to the mainland has morphed into a broader bid to reverse a slide of freedoms in the southern Chinese city.

But the city's Beijing-backed leader has ruled out meeting the protesters' demands, which include the right to choose their next leader and an investigation into alleged police brutality.

The demonstrations have become increasingly violent, with police using tear gas and rubber bullets to push back protesters who have sometimes hurled bricks and bottles.

"It is becoming more and more dangerous, but if we don't still come out at this point, our future will become more frightening, and we will lose our freedoms," a 22-year-old protester at the airport told AFP on Monday.

China warns of 'terrorism'

The movement has infuriated Beijing, where authorities Monday slammed violent protesters who threw petrol bombs at police officers, linking them to "terrorism".

"Hong Kong's radical demonstrators have repeatedly used extremely dangerous tools to attack police officers, which already constitutes a serious violent crime, and also shows the first signs of terrorism emerging," said Yang Guang, spokesman for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council.

"This wantonly tramples on Hong Kong's rule of law and social order."

Hours later, two state media outlets ran videos showing armoured personnel and troop carriers purportedly driving to Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong.

And a commentary early Tuesday on China's official Xinhua news agency spoke of "black-clad mobsters" and said Hong Kong's future is at a "critical juncture".

A senior official in the administration of US President Donald Trump on Monday urged "all sides" to avoid violence in Hong Kong.

"Societies are best served when diverse political views are respected and can be freely and peacefully expressed," the official said on condition of anonymity.

Hong Kong airport re-opened on Tuesday after a rally by thousands of pro-democracy protesters triggered an unprecedented shutdown, but hundreds of flights were still listed as cancelled.

Hong Kong airport re-opened on Tuesday after a rally by thousands of pro-democracy protesters triggered an unprecedented shutdown, but hundreds of flights were still listed as cancelled. The abrupt closure marked a new low in a 10-week crisis that has seen millions of people take to Hong Kong's streets in the biggest challenge to Chinese rule of the semi-autonomous city since its 1997 handover from Britain. The protests on Monday were driven by anger over alleged police brutality, with demonstrators claiming one woman had lost an eye at a weekend rally and video showing tear gas being used against them in a subway station. But the protests have led to rising anger from authorities in Beijing, who on Monday described some of the violent demonstrations as "terrorism". State-run media on Monday also showed armoured personnel carriers assembling at a mainland city just across the border from Hong Kong. Early Tuesday, passengers with luggage were being checked in at the departures hall and information boards showed several flights were boarding or about to depart. But the woes at the airport remained far from over, with a massive backlog of flights to clear and activists calling for another protest there on Tuesday afternoon. Cathay Pacific, Hong Kong's flagship airline, listed more than 200 flights as still being cancelled on Tuesday morning. It an advisory posted on its website at 6:00 am (2200 GMT Monday), Cathay said passengers urged customers to postpone non-essential travel from Hong Kong. The protests have infuriated Beijing, which described some of the violent demonstrations as "terrorism". Washington overnight urged all sides to refrain from violence, as the crisis sparked by a bill to allow extradition to mainland China continues with no apparent end in sight. Watch: Protests continue at Hong Kong Airport × 'An eye for an eye' On Tuesday morning, only a handful of protesters remained in the airport. But fears of a police operation to clear the facility overnight proved unfounded, with demonstrators simply leaving by themselves. Many of the posters and artwork they had hung throughout the facility during the hours-long rally had been taken down, but graffiti -- some reading "an eye for an eye" -- could still be seen in several places. The protesters adopted the slogan after a woman suffered a serious facial injury that reportedly caused her to lose the vision in one eye at a demonstration that turned violent on Sunday night. The demonstrators accuse police of causing the injury by firing a bean-bag round and cite the case as evidence of what they say has been an excessive and disproportionate response by police to their protests. The activists have called on their supporters to return to the airport later on Tuesday, though it was unclear whether authorities would allow that to happen. The protests that began in opposition to a bill allowing extradition to the mainland has morphed into a broader bid to reverse a slide of freedoms in the southern Chinese city. But the city's Beijing-backed leader has ruled out meeting the protesters' demands, which include the right to choose their next leader and an investigation into alleged police brutality. The demonstrations have become increasingly violent, with police using tear gas and rubber bullets to push back protesters who have sometimes hurled bricks and bottles. "It is becoming more and more dangerous, but if we don't still come out at this point, our future will become more frightening, and we will lose our freedoms," a 22-year-old protester at the airport told AFP on Monday. China warns of 'terrorism' The movement has infuriated Beijing, where authorities Monday slammed violent protesters who threw petrol bombs at police officers, linking them to "terrorism". "Hong Kong's radical demonstrators have repeatedly used extremely dangerous tools to attack police officers, which already constitutes a serious violent crime, and also shows the first signs of terrorism emerging," said Yang Guang, spokesman for the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council. "This wantonly tramples on Hong Kong's rule of law and social order." Hours later, two state media outlets ran videos showing armoured personnel and troop carriers purportedly driving to Shenzhen, which borders Hong Kong. And a commentary early Tuesday on China's official Xinhua news agency spoke of "black-clad mobsters" and said Hong Kong's future is at a "critical juncture". A senior official in the administration of US President Donald Trump on Monday urged "all sides" to avoid violence in Hong Kong. "Societies are best served when diverse political views are respected and can be freely and peacefully expressed," the official said on condition of anonymity.

Hong Kong airport reopens after protest shutdown; 200 fights cancelled

Nurses, doctors, medical students and ordinary people with first aid training have clamoured to join what has become a small volunteer corps helping treat people on the frontlines of Hong Kong's protests that have engulfed the city for over two months.

'It's humanitarian': The medics helping Hong Kong's protesters

Fresh protests are being reported from Hong Kong airport. Pro-democracy activists kicked off a 3-day rally at Hong Kong airport on Friday. Rally was promoted in social media with a mock boarding pass reading "HK to freedom".

WION Dispatch: Protesters in Hong Kong launch fresh protests at airport

Radical protesters in Hong Kong must not mistake China's restraint for weakness, China's Hong Kong affairs office said on Tuesday, vowing that the "violent criminals" pushing the city toward a "dangerous abyss" would be brought to justice. Hong Kong has suffered weeks of sometimes violent protests that began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law that would have allowed suspects to be tried in mainland courts.

China warns Hong Kong protesters not to mistake restraint for weakness

Thousands of protesters descended on China’s representative office in Hong Kong, as anger over an extradition bill morphs into a fresh front. Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong: Thousands protest for complete withdrawal of extradition bill

Hong Kong protesters clashed with police on Saturday in a town near the boundary with mainland China where thousands rallied against the presence of Chinese traders, seizing on another grievance following major unrest over an extradition bill, reported news agency Reuters.

The demonstration in the Hong Kong territorial town of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/after-scuffles-hong-kong-police-warn-protesters-to-refrain-from-violence-leave-scene-235524">Sheung Shui</a>, not far from the Chinese city of Shenzhen, began peacefully but devolved into skirmishes and shouting, the report added.&nbsp;

Protesters threw umbrellas and hardhats at police, who retaliated by swinging batons and firing pepper spray.

Later, Hong Kong police urged protesters to refrain from violence and leave the area. By around 8:30pm (1230 GMT), most had retreated as police in riot helmets and wielding large shields swept through the town to reclaim the streets.

The protest was the latest in a series that have roiled the former<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-protesters-take-aim-at-chinese-traders-235490"> British colony</a> for more than a month, giving rise to its worst political crisis since its 1997 handover to China.

Sometimes violent street protests have drawn in millions of people, with hundreds even storming the legislature on July 1 to oppose a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be sent to China to face trial in courts under ruling Communist Party control.

(With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong protesters clashed with police on Saturday in a town near the boundary with mainland China where thousands rallied against the presence of Chinese traders, seizing on another grievance following major unrest over an extradition bill, reported news agency Reuters.

Hong Kong protesters clashed with police on Saturday in a town near the boundary with mainland China where thousands rallied against the presence of Chinese traders, seizing on another grievance following major unrest over an extradition bill, reported news agency Reuters. The demonstration in the Hong Kong territorial town of Sheung Shui, not far from the Chinese city of Shenzhen, began peacefully but devolved into skirmishes and shouting, the report added. Protesters threw umbrellas and hardhats at police, who retaliated by swinging batons and firing pepper spray. Later, Hong Kong police urged protesters to refrain from violence and leave the area. By around 8:30pm (1230 GMT), most had retreated as police in riot helmets and wielding large shields swept through the town to reclaim the streets. The protest was the latest in a series that have roiled the former British colony for more than a month, giving rise to its worst political crisis since its 1997 handover to China. Sometimes violent street protests have drawn in millions of people, with hundreds even storming the legislature on July 1 to oppose a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed criminal suspects in Hong Kong to be sent to China to face trial in courts under ruling Communist Party control. (With inputs from Reuters)

Hong Kong protesters, police clash as demonstrations target Chinese traders

Hong Kong protesters not appeased by Lam's 'word games.' Demonstrators vow to organize more protests. Protesters said that Lam din't use word 'withdraw in her speech.' Watch this video to know more.

Hong Kong Protesters Reject Lam's Declaration

Anti-government <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/dancing-aunties-spark-new-hong-kong-protest-233608">protesters in Hong Kong</a> plan to rally later Sunday outside a controversial station where high-speed trains depart for the Chinese mainland as they try to keep up pressure on the city's pro-Beijing leaders.

The rally is the first major protest planned since last Monday's unprecedented storming of parliament by largely young, masked protesters - a move which plunged the international financial hub further into crisis.

Hong Kong has been rocked by a month of huge peaceful protests as well as a series of separate <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/chinese-state-media-says-western-ideologues-to-blame-for-hong-kong-unrest-232918">violent confrontations with police</a>, sparked by a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China.

The bill has since been postponed in response to the intense backlash but that has done little to quell public anger, which has evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous city.

Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down.

Beijing has thrown its full support behind Lam, calling on Hong Kong police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes.

Watch: 'China eroding Hong Kong autonomy,' Hong Kong activist speaks to WION

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/china-eroding-hong-kong-autonomy-hong-kong-activist-speaks-to-wion-233686/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Aimed at mainlanders

Sunday's rally - first mooted on encrypted messaging apps and online forums - is being billed as an opportunity to explain to Chinese mainlanders in the city what the protest movement is about.

It is the first to take place in Kowloon, across the harbour from the main island, and will begin at 3:00 pm (0700 GMT) in the Tsim Sha Tsui district, which is popular with mainland Chinese tourists.

Inside the Chinese mainland, where news and information is heavily censored, the Hong Kong protests have been portrayed as a primarily violent, foreign-funded plot to destabilise the motherland.

"I hope this march can tell mainland people what we are fighting for and plant a seed that opposes the tyranny," one user wrote on the Reddit-like LIHKG forum, which has been a key online gathering place for demonstrators.

Sunday's rally is not being organised by the same protest group behind three massive peaceful marches, making it difficult to predict the expected crowd size.

The protest will later march to West Kowloon, a recently opened multi-billion-dollar station that links to China's high-speed rail network.

The terminus is controversial because Chinese law operates in the parts of the station dealing with immigration and customs as well as the platforms, even though West Kowloon is miles from the border further north.

Critics say that move gave away part of the city's territory to an increasingly assertive Beijing.

Local politician Ventus Lau Wing-hong, one of those organising the rally, said they would "protest in a peaceful, rational and elegant way" adding there was no desire to occupy the station given the catalyst for their movement was opposing people being sent to the mainland.

But local authorities appeared to be taking no chances.

The station's operator announced only passengers with existing tickets would be allowed inside the building while all but two entrances would be shuttered alongside restaurants and parking bays. New ticket sales were also halted for Sunday.

Under Hong Kong's mini-constitution - the Basic Law -&nbsp;China's national laws do not apply to the city apart from in limited areas, including defence.

Hong Kong also enjoys rights unseen on the mainland, including freedom of speech, protected by a deal made before the city was handed back to China by Britain in 1997.

But there are growing fears those liberties are being eroded.

Among recent watershed moments, critics point to are the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians, the de facto expulsion of a foreign journalist and the jailing of democracy protest leaders.

Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people.

A 79-day occupation of key intersections in 2014 calling for universal suffrage failed to win any concessions from Beijing.

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong plan to rally later Sunday outside a controversial station where high-speed trains depart for the Chinese mainland as they try to keep up pressure on the city's pro-Beijing leaders.

Anti-government protesters in Hong Kong plan to rally later Sunday outside a controversial station where high-speed trains depart for the Chinese mainland as they try to keep up pressure on the city's pro-Beijing leaders. The rally is the first major protest planned since last Monday's unprecedented storming of parliament by largely young, masked protesters - a move which plunged the international financial hub further into crisis. Hong Kong has been rocked by a month of huge peaceful protests as well as a series of separate violent confrontations with police, sparked by a law that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. The bill has since been postponed in response to the intense backlash but that has done little to quell public anger, which has evolved into a wider movement calling for democratic reforms and a halt to sliding freedoms in the semi-autonomous city. Protesters are demanding the bill be scrapped entirely, an independent inquiry into police use of tear gas and rubber bullets, amnesty for those arrested, and for the city's unelected leader Carrie Lam to step down. Beijing has thrown its full support behind Lam, calling on Hong Kong police to pursue anyone involved in the parliament storming and other clashes. Watch: 'China eroding Hong Kong autonomy,' Hong Kong activist speaks to WION Aimed at mainlanders Sunday's rally - first mooted on encrypted messaging apps and online forums - is being billed as an opportunity to explain to Chinese mainlanders in the city what the protest movement is about. It is the first to take place in Kowloon, across the harbour from the main island, and will begin at 3:00 pm (0700 GMT) in the Tsim Sha Tsui district, which is popular with mainland Chinese tourists. Inside the Chinese mainland, where news and information is heavily censored, the Hong Kong protests have been portrayed as a primarily violent, foreign-funded plot to destabilise the motherland. "I hope this march can tell mainland people what we are fighting for and plant a seed that opposes the tyranny," one user wrote on the Reddit-like LIHKG forum, which has been a key online gathering place for demonstrators. Sunday's rally is not being organised by the same protest group behind three massive peaceful marches, making it difficult to predict the expected crowd size. The protest will later march to West Kowloon, a recently opened multi-billion-dollar station that links to China's high-speed rail network. The terminus is controversial because Chinese law operates in the parts of the station dealing with immigration and customs as well as the platforms, even though West Kowloon is miles from the border further north. Critics say that move gave away part of the city's territory to an increasingly assertive Beijing. Local politician Ventus Lau Wing-hong, one of those organising the rally, said they would "protest in a peaceful, rational and elegant way" adding there was no desire to occupy the station given the catalyst for their movement was opposing people being sent to the mainland. But local authorities appeared to be taking no chances. The station's operator announced only passengers with existing tickets would be allowed inside the building while all but two entrances would be shuttered alongside restaurants and parking bays. New ticket sales were also halted for Sunday. Under Hong Kong's mini-constitution - the Basic Law - China's national laws do not apply to the city apart from in limited areas, including defence. Hong Kong also enjoys rights unseen on the mainland, including freedom of speech, protected by a deal made before the city was handed back to China by Britain in 1997. But there are growing fears those liberties are being eroded. Among recent watershed moments, critics point to are the disappearance into mainland custody of dissident booksellers, the disqualification of prominent politicians, the de facto expulsion of a foreign journalist and the jailing of democracy protest leaders. Authorities have also resisted calls for the city's leader to be directly elected by the people. A 79-day occupation of key intersections in 2014 calling for universal suffrage failed to win any concessions from Beijing.

In a bid to keep up pressure on city's pro-Beijing leaders, Hong Kong protesters take aim at China station 

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-condemns-extremely-violent-protests-232173">ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature </a>and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders".

The semi-autonomous financial hub has been thrown into crisis by weeks of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-police-retake-parliament-from-anti-government-protesters-232153">massive demonstrations over a bill </a>that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland.

But on Monday -- the 22nd anniversary of the city's handover to China -- anger spilled over as groups of mostly young, hardline protesters, broke into the legislative council where they hung Hong Kong's colonial-era flag and left anti-Beijing graffiti.

"These serious illegal actions trample on the rule of law in Hong Kong, undermine Hong Kong's social order and harm the fundamental interests of Hong Kong," the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, China's cabinet, said in a statement by an unnamed spokesperson.

"It is a blatant challenge to the 'one country, two systems' bottom line. We express our vehement condemnation against this," the spokesperson said.

Under the terms of the 1997 handover between colonial power Britain to China, Hong Kong is to be governed under its own laws with special rights including freedom of speech and an independent judiciary until 2047.

The statement said Beijing strongly supports Hong Kong's government and the police.

The central government "also supports the relevant agencies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to investigate the criminal responsibility of violent offenders in accordance with the law, to restore normal social order as soon as possible, to protect the personal and property safety of the citizens, and to safeguard Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," it said.

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders".

China's central government condemned on Tuesday the ransacking of Hong Kong's legislature and said it backed the city authorities to investigate the "criminal responsibility of violent offenders". The semi-autonomous financial hub has been thrown into crisis by weeks of massive demonstrations over a bill that would allow extraditions to the Chinese mainland. But on Monday -- the 22nd anniversary of the city's handover to China -- anger spilled over as groups of mostly young, hardline protesters, broke into the legislative council where they hung Hong Kong's colonial-era flag and left anti-Beijing graffiti. "These serious illegal actions trample on the rule of law in Hong Kong, undermine Hong Kong's social order and harm the fundamental interests of Hong Kong," the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council, China's cabinet, said in a statement by an unnamed spokesperson. "It is a blatant challenge to the 'one country, two systems' bottom line. We express our vehement condemnation against this," the spokesperson said. Under the terms of the 1997 handover between colonial power Britain to China, Hong Kong is to be governed under its own laws with special rights including freedom of speech and an independent judiciary until 2047. The statement said Beijing strongly supports Hong Kong's government and the police. The central government "also supports the relevant agencies of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to investigate the criminal responsibility of violent offenders in accordance with the law, to restore normal social order as soon as possible, to protect the personal and property safety of the citizens, and to safeguard Hong Kong's prosperity and stability," it said.

Investigate criminal responsibility of violent offenders: China to Hong Kong authorities

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/investigate-criminal-responsibility-of-violent-offenders-china-to-hong-kong-authorities-232227">Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong </a>was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/hong-kong-leader-carrie-lam-condemns-extremely-violent-protests-232173">British colony</a>.

China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest.

"The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said.

"There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. 
 
Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/hong-kong-police-evacuate-protesters-from-chamber-232300/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them.

Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns.

"We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said.

"But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony.

Britain warned China on Tuesday that there would be serious consequences if the Sino-British declaration on Hong Kong was not honoured, saying Britain stood behind the people in the former British colony. China has condemned violent demonstrations in Hong Kong as an "undisguised challenge" to the 'one country, two systems' formula under which the city is ruled which allows freedoms not enjoyed in mainland China, including the freedom to protest. "The UK signed an internationally binding legal agreement in 1984 that enshrines the 'one country, two systems rule', enshrines the basic freedoms of the people of Hong Kong and we stand four square behind that agreement, four square behind the people of Hong Kong," British foreign minister Jeremy Hunt said. "There will be serious consequences if that internationally binding legal agreement were not to be honoured," he told BBC TV. Watch: Hong Kong police evacuate protesters from the legislative chamber Protesters, angry about proposed legislation allowing extraditions to mainland China, smashed their way into Hong Kong's legislature on Monday, with police using tear gas to disperse them. Hunt urged the Hong Kong authorities that any repression would exacerbate people's concerns. "We in the UK condemn violence on all sides, and many people who strongly support the pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong will have been deeply dismayed by the scenes they saw on TV last night," Hunt said. "But, we urge the authorities not to use what happened as a pretext for repression, but rather to understand the root causes of what happened which is a deep-seated concern by people in Hong Kong that their basic freedoms are under attack."

UK warns China of serious consequences if Hong Kong rights not honoured

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/protesters-block-roads-surround-police-headquarters-in-hong-kong-229303">anti-government demonstrators</a> calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader.

Thousands of largely young protesters surrounded the building throughout Friday and into the small hours of Saturday morning, the latest manifestation of angry demonstrations sweeping Hong Kong.

The international finance hub has been rocked by the worst political unrest since its 1997 handover to China.&nbsp;

Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland.

Officers also used tear gas and rubber bullets last week to clear protesters during another massive demonstration outside the city's parliament, fanning widespread anger at the police.

The spark for the current wave of protests was an attempt by chief executive Carrie Lam to pass the Beijing-backed extradition law, which she has now postponed following the huge public backlash.

But the demonstrations have since morphed into a wider movement against Lam's administration and Beijing after years of sliding political freedoms.

Guerrilla protests

Protest leaders plan to hold another huge rally on July 1 but student-led groups -- communicating through encrypted messaging apps -- have begun embracing spontaneous, fast-moving acts of civil disobedience.

"We need to flow like water", one protester called Chris told AFP, espousing a famous philosophy from martial arts superstar and Hong Kong legend Bruce Lee.

During Friday's demonstrations outside police headquarters, large crowds of protesters blockaded entrances, taped over CCTV cameras and shouted at police.

Many chanted "release the righteous" and "shame on police thugs" -- references to those detained during violence last week between demonstrators and the police.

Opposition groups have demanded an investigation into allegations of police brutality and the release of those detained during the clashes, in addition to Lam's ouster and the permanent cancellation of the extradition bill.

Officers remained inside their fortified building throughout Friday.

The protest was noisy but peaceful -- with the exception of some thrown eggs and demonstrators shining laser pens at the windows.&nbsp;

The crowds eventually dispersed in the early hours of Saturday some 15 hours after their demonstration began.

In a statement Saturday morning, police called the protest "illegal, irrational and unreasonable", saying emergency calls were interrupted and that 13 members of staff were "sent to hospital for treatment".

It did not say how the staff were injured.

Police have defended using tear gas and rubber bullets on June 12 as a necessary and proportionate response to meet violent protesters who were trying to break into the city's parliament.

But rights group Amnesty International said Friday it had verified multiple instances of police violence that breached international laws.

Sliding freedoms

Although Hong Kong was returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, it is still administered separately under an arrangement known as "one country, two systems".

The city enjoys freedoms unseen on the mainland but many residents have been alarmed in recent years by what they feel is a tighter grip by Beijing.

Hong Kong's leaders are not elected and calls for universal suffrage have fallen on deaf ears.

In 2014, pro-democracy protesters seized key intersections of the city for two months but failed to win any concessions from Beijing.

Since then, many of that movement's leaders have been jailed while some Beijing critics have found themselves banned from politics or even disappearing into Chinese custody.

Opposition to the extradition bill managed to unite a wide cross-section of Hong Kong with prominent legal and business bodies, religious figures and activists speaking out against it.

Critics feared the law would ensnare both Hong Kongers and foreigners in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system, and also give Beijing a tool to target critics based in the semi-autonomous territory.

The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments.

But Beijing said after the bill's suspension that it respected and understood the decision. 
&nbsp;

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by anti-government demonstrators calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader.

Hong Kong police on Saturday slammed an "illegal" blockade of its headquarters after a 15-hour siege by anti-government demonstrators calling for the resignation of the city's pro-Beijing leader. Thousands of largely young protesters surrounded the building throughout Friday and into the small hours of Saturday morning, the latest manifestation of angry demonstrations sweeping Hong Kong. The international finance hub has been rocked by the worst political unrest since its 1997 handover to China. Millions have marched this month to oppose a proposed law that would have allowed extraditions to the Chinese mainland. Officers also used tear gas and rubber bullets last week to clear protesters during another massive demonstration outside the city's parliament, fanning widespread anger at the police. The spark for the current wave of protests was an attempt by chief executive Carrie Lam to pass the Beijing-backed extradition law, which she has now postponed following the huge public backlash. But the demonstrations have since morphed into a wider movement against Lam's administration and Beijing after years of sliding political freedoms. Guerrilla protests Protest leaders plan to hold another huge rally on July 1 but student-led groups -- communicating through encrypted messaging apps -- have begun embracing spontaneous, fast-moving acts of civil disobedience. "We need to flow like water", one protester called Chris told AFP, espousing a famous philosophy from martial arts superstar and Hong Kong legend Bruce Lee. During Friday's demonstrations outside police headquarters, large crowds of protesters blockaded entrances, taped over CCTV cameras and shouted at police. Many chanted "release the righteous" and "shame on police thugs" -- references to those detained during violence last week between demonstrators and the police. Opposition groups have demanded an investigation into allegations of police brutality and the release of those detained during the clashes, in addition to Lam's ouster and the permanent cancellation of the extradition bill. Officers remained inside their fortified building throughout Friday. The protest was noisy but peaceful -- with the exception of some thrown eggs and demonstrators shining laser pens at the windows. The crowds eventually dispersed in the early hours of Saturday some 15 hours after their demonstration began. In a statement Saturday morning, police called the protest "illegal, irrational and unreasonable", saying emergency calls were interrupted and that 13 members of staff were "sent to hospital for treatment". It did not say how the staff were injured. Police have defended using tear gas and rubber bullets on June 12 as a necessary and proportionate response to meet violent protesters who were trying to break into the city's parliament. But rights group Amnesty International said Friday it had verified multiple instances of police violence that breached international laws. Sliding freedoms Although Hong Kong was returned from British to Chinese rule in 1997, it is still administered separately under an arrangement known as "one country, two systems". The city enjoys freedoms unseen on the mainland but many residents have been alarmed in recent years by what they feel is a tighter grip by Beijing. Hong Kong's leaders are not elected and calls for universal suffrage have fallen on deaf ears. In 2014, pro-democracy protesters seized key intersections of the city for two months but failed to win any concessions from Beijing. Since then, many of that movement's leaders have been jailed while some Beijing critics have found themselves banned from politics or even disappearing into Chinese custody. Opposition to the extradition bill managed to unite a wide cross-section of Hong Kong with prominent legal and business bodies, religious figures and activists speaking out against it. Critics feared the law would ensnare both Hong Kongers and foreigners in mainland China's opaque and politicised justice system, and also give Beijing a tool to target critics based in the semi-autonomous territory. The Chinese government had supported the extradition proposal and accused protest organisers of colluding with Western governments. But Beijing said after the bill's suspension that it respected and understood the decision.

Hong Kong police slam 'illegal' protest as Headquarter siege ends

Thousands of protesters blocked entry to Hong Kong's government headquarters Wednesday, delaying a legislative session on a proposed extradition bill that has heightened fears over greater Chinese control and erosion of civil liberties in the semi-autonomous territory.

Hong Kong government asks protesters to leave

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