The US President&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/donald-trump">Donald Trump</a>'s close aide Hope Hicks has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The news broke out minutes after&nbsp;Trump&nbsp;claimed that the end of the pandemic "is in sight".

Hicks, who is&nbsp;counselor to President Donald Trump,&nbsp;was recently spotted flying in the Air Force One on Tuesday with the President to the first presidential debate in Ohio.

After her coronavirus tests came out, the spotlight has turned towards&nbsp;Trump.&nbsp;The President, however, has assured the public that he and the First lady have undergone a COVID test after Hicks tested positive. The first couple has quarantined themselves while they await their test results.

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Hope Hicks, who has been working so hard without even taking a small break, has just tested positive for Covid 19. Terrible! The First Lady and I are waiting for our test results. In the meantime, we will begin our quarantine process!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1311859538279239686?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 2, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-claims-end-of-pandemic-in-sight-at-al-smith-dinner-before-us-election-2020-331847">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump claims 'end of pandemic in sight' at Al Smith Dinner before US election 2020</a>

Hicks was also seen aboard the&nbsp;Marine One&nbsp;along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Dan Scavino and Nicholas Luna. None of them were spotted wearing a face mask.

As of now, there have been no specific steps taken int he White House against the spread of coronavirus since Hicks' announcement. The White House spokesman Judd Deere said "the president takes the health and safety of himself and everyone who works in support of him and the American people very seriously."

He also assure that the White House takes the required "for limiting COVID-19 exposure to the greatest extent possible both on complex and when the president is traveling."

The US President Donald Trump's close aide Hope Hicks has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The news broke out minutes after Trump claimed that the end of the pandemic "is in sight".

The US President Donald Trump's close aide Hope Hicks has tested positive for the novel coronavirus. The news broke out minutes after Trump claimed that the end of the pandemic "is in sight". Hicks, who is counselor to President Donald Trump, was recently spotted flying in the Air Force One on Tuesday with the President to the first presidential debate in Ohio. After her coronavirus tests came out, the spotlight has turned towards Trump. The President, however, has assured the public that he and the First lady have undergone a COVID test after Hicks tested positive. The first couple has quarantined themselves while they await their test results. Hope Hicks, who has been working so hard without even taking a small break, has just tested positive for Covid 19. Terrible! The First Lady and I are waiting for our test results. In the meantime, we will begin our quarantine process! — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) October 2, 2020 × Also read: Donald Trump claims 'end of pandemic in sight' at Al Smith Dinner before US election 2020 Hicks was also seen aboard the Marine One along with Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner, Dan Scavino and Nicholas Luna. None of them were spotted wearing a face mask. As of now, there have been no specific steps taken int he White House against the spread of coronavirus since Hicks' announcement. The White House spokesman Judd Deere said "the president takes the health and safety of himself and everyone who works in support of him and the American people very seriously." He also assure that the White House takes the required "for limiting COVID-19 exposure to the greatest extent possible both on complex and when the president is traveling."

Donald Trump to quarantine after close aide Hope Hicks tests positive for COVID-19

Speaking exclusively to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, former White House staffer Mike McCormick has claimed that Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden is unfit to become the President of the United States. The author of 'Joe Biden Unauthorized: And the 2020 Crackup of the Democratic Party'&nbsp;also spoke on topics such as nepotism and the release of tell-all books before the election.

&nbsp;<iframe __idm_id__="211119105" allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-former-white-house-staffer-joe-biden-unfit-to-become-president-326719/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe>

Here is an excerpt of the interview:

Mike McCormick says about Biden that he is ''completely different from what he was in 2017. Biden has lost his step and does not have mental equity, he worked closely with him during 2011-2017, travelled around the world with him. At DNC, he was reading every word from a prompter. Used to make fun about prepared speeches and talked from his heart''. 
&nbsp; 
WION: Could it be because he was nervous. Not known for his oratorical skills and the recent scrutiny about his style.

Mike McCormick: Biden has always been very proud and a strong speaker. He has never used any speeches by his writers. DNC speech was approximately 25 minutes but usually goes on to 45 minutes because he is getting weak and does not have that sort of energy and vitality but Donald Trump is getting stronger because he is able able to do it.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | Speaking exclusively to <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a>, former White House Stenographer Mike McCormick (<a href="https://twitter.com/15_deplorable?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@15_deplorable</a>) has claimed that Democratic Presidential Nominee <a href="https://twitter.com/JoeBiden?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@JoeBiden</a> is unfit to become the President of the US<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USElection2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USElection2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/HFpNewT6dT">pic.twitter.com/HFpNewT6dT</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1304301165136375816?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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WION: You have written two pro-Trump books and your narrative is the same as his... Trump says, 'he doesn't have a clue. He was good during his prime time but not anymore. Let's face it, Joe's short'' Is it a coincidence that your books promote the Trump campaign?

Mike McCormick: It is not a coincidence. I worked as a stenographer in the White House for 15 years from 2002 to 2017. This includes a year with Trump. I saw Americans who were not being listened to and were being listened to Donald Trump. Joe makes a fool of himself in front of dictatorial leaders. Vladimir Putin made Biden look foolish in Moscow when he invited him to tell about his history with Russia. When Biden did not stop talking, Putin shut the lights and the microphone while Biden was still speaking. It left Biden speechless.

Similarly, Xi Jinping made fun of him in Beijing in front of me in 2011 during his early period of vice-presidency and I wrote a chapter on it in my book', they demonstrated that he is too weak to be a world leader. People in the United States did not see that side of Joe Biden because it was never reported.

WION: You're saying he is physically and mentally weak and thus, incapable of being a world leader. You were described as a constant presence during his vice presidency and so, you were privy to a lot of information.

Mike McCormick: No, I wouldn't say that. My job at the White House was that of a stenographer in the press office. My job was to record what Biden said to the press. So, I travelled with him. But he never got the level of attention as a president gets.

WION: Talking about nepotism. What's worse, to have your son's business benefit because you're the vice-president or to have your daughter and son-in-law as presidential advisors despite no specific qualification?

Mike McCormick: It depends on the job they do. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump have done a good job as advisers to US President Donald Trump.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Gravitas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Gravitas</a> | Former White House Stenographer Mike McCormick (<a href="https://twitter.com/15_deplorable?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@15_deplorable</a>) says that Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump have done a good job as advisers to US President <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a>. Here is an exclusive conversation with <a href="https://twitter.com/palkisu?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@palkisu</a>.<a href="https://twitter.com/jaredkushner?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jaredkushner</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IvankaTrump</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USElection2020?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USElection2020</a> <a href="https://t.co/h8p69jytCh">pic.twitter.com/h8p69jytCh</a>
— WION (@WIONews) <a href="https://twitter.com/WIONews/status/1304302898319245312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 11, 2020</a></blockquote>
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WION: But Ivanka Trump also has business interest in China.

Mike McCormick: Ivanka has not got into any trouble unlike Hunter Biden who was caught by US Navy for possessing cocaine in 2013 when he went to China but the White House tried to cover it up.

WION: She's not been caught yet. That's what you are saying?

Mike McCormick: &nbsp;She has done no such thing. No, the reason for her to get caught. Hunter Biden keeps doing it. A 2019 article in the New Yorker magazine also said he said he led a life of degradation. It has ended up in such a manner that he is hardly a part of life anymore.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-election-2020-book-troubles-for-donald-trump-in-2020-326488">US election 2020: Book troubles for Donald Trump in 2020</a>

WION: Donald Trump's health has also been questioned recently. He suffered a couple of "series strokes". Do you agree that age is not the strong suit of either of the presidential contenders?

Mike McCormick: No, I do not agree with it at all. I think Donald Trump is one of the most highly energetic people. When I worked with him for a year, that is, during 2017-2018, I did not see him missing a step. He is engaging and active in front of people. He handles the press better than any American President whereas Joe Biden is afraid to go out and talk to the press. He cannot hold press conferences day after day.

Also see:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/us-election-2020-controversies-associated-with-watergate-scandal-reporter-bob-woodward-326637">US election 2020: Controversies associated with Watergate scandal reporter Bob Woodward</a>

WION: Bob Woodward's book "Rage" is in the headlines these days. In it he claims that Trump downplayed the seriousness of the pandemic, how conveniently timed are these publications to exploit the election fever.

Mike McCormick: I wrote my book in March. I thought I was publishing my book for the primary season, a time when Americans decide the Democratic leader. Joe Biden became the frontrunner and the pandemic hit. All democratic party events went online. No one got the chance to see what Biden was doing for months. In June, I sent a copy of my book to every Senator on the list of Senate Homeland Security Committee who are investigating Hunter Biden's activities. Joe Biden's Vice Presential pick Kamala Harris got a copy of my book in the mail in June. If she didn't they do not post the US Pose Service. I wrote my second book to tell the truth about Joe Biden. My first book was about how the White House press is lenient towards Joe Biden and Barack Obama.

WION: Are tell-all books by close staffers an ethical practice?

Mike McCormick:&nbsp;Tell-all books need to be judged by their merit and credibility. In my case, I was an eye witness and used White House sources and transcripts. An informed voter is the best voter and they need to know the truth before the elections.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, former White House staffer Mike McCormick has claimed that Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden is unfit to become the President of the United States.

Speaking exclusively to WION's Executive Editor Palki Sharma Upadhyay, former White House staffer Mike McCormick has claimed that Democratic Presidential Nominee Joe Biden is unfit to become the President of the United States. The author of 'Joe Biden Unauthorized: And the 2020 Crackup of the Democratic Party' also spoke on topics such as nepotism and the release of tell-all books before the election. Here is an excerpt of the interview: Mike McCormick says about Biden that he is ''completely different from what he was in 2017. Biden has lost his step and does not have mental equity, he worked closely with him during 2011-2017, travelled around the world with him. At DNC, he was reading every word from a prompter. Used to make fun about prepared speeches and talked from his heart''. WION: Could it be because he was nervous. Not known for his oratorical skills and the recent scrutiny about his style. Mike McCormick: Biden has always been very proud and a strong speaker. He has never used any speeches by his writers. DNC speech was approximately 25 minutes but usually goes on to 45 minutes because he is getting weak and does not have that sort of energy and vitality but Donald Trump is getting stronger because he is able able to do it. #Gravitas | Speaking exclusively to @palkisu, former White House Stenographer Mike McCormick (@15_deplorable) has claimed that Democratic Presidential Nominee @JoeBiden is unfit to become the President of the US#USElection2020 pic.twitter.com/HFpNewT6dT — WION (@WIONews) September 11, 2020 × WION: You have written two pro-Trump books and your narrative is the same as his... Trump says, 'he doesn't have a clue. He was good during his prime time but not anymore. Let's face it, Joe's short'' Is it a coincidence that your books promote the Trump campaign? Mike McCormick: It is not a coincidence. I worked as a stenographer in the White House for 15 years from 2002 to 2017. This includes a year with Trump. I saw Americans who were not being listened to and were being listened to Donald Trump. Joe makes a fool of himself in front of dictatorial leaders. Vladimir Putin made Biden look foolish in Moscow when he invited him to tell about his history with Russia. When Biden did not stop talking, Putin shut the lights and the microphone while Biden was still speaking. It left Biden speechless. Similarly, Xi Jinping made fun of him in Beijing in front of me in 2011 during his early period of vice-presidency and I wrote a chapter on it in my book', they demonstrated that he is too weak to be a world leader. People in the United States did not see that side of Joe Biden because it was never reported. WION: You're saying he is physically and mentally weak and thus, incapable of being a world leader. You were described as a constant presence during his vice presidency and so, you were privy to a lot of information. Mike McCormick: No, I wouldn't say that. My job at the White House was that of a stenographer in the press office. My job was to record what Biden said to the press. So, I travelled with him. But he never got the level of attention as a president gets. WION: Talking about nepotism. What's worse, to have your son's business benefit because you're the vice-president or to have your daughter and son-in-law as presidential advisors despite no specific qualification? Mike McCormick: It depends on the job they do. Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump have done a good job as advisers to US President Donald Trump. #Gravitas | Former White House Stenographer Mike McCormick (@15_deplorable) says that Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump have done a good job as advisers to US President @realDonaldTrump. Here is an exclusive conversation with @palkisu.@jaredkushner @IvankaTrump #USElection2020 pic.twitter.com/h8p69jytCh — WION (@WIONews) September 11, 2020 × WION: But Ivanka Trump also has business interest in China. Mike McCormick: Ivanka has not got into any trouble unlike Hunter Biden who was caught by US Navy for possessing cocaine in 2013 when he went to China but the White House tried to cover it up. WION: She's not been caught yet. That's what you are saying? Mike McCormick: She has done no such thing. No, the reason for her to get caught. Hunter Biden keeps doing it. A 2019 article in the New Yorker magazine also said he said he led a life of degradation. It has ended up in such a manner that he is hardly a part of life anymore. Also see: US election 2020: Book troubles for Donald Trump in 2020 WION: Donald Trump's health has also been questioned recently. He suffered a couple of "series strokes". Do you agree that age is not the strong suit of either of the presidential contenders? Mike McCormick: No, I do not agree with it at all. I think Donald Trump is one of the most highly energetic people. When I worked with him for a year, that is, during 2017-2018, I did not see him missing a step. He is engaging and active in front of people. He handles the press better than any American President whereas Joe Biden is afraid to go out and talk to the press. He cannot hold press conferences day after day. Also see: US election 2020: Controversies associated with Watergate scandal reporter Bob Woodward WION: Bob Woodward's book "Rage" is in the headlines these days. In it he claims that Trump downplayed the seriousness of the pandemic, how conveniently timed are these publications to exploit the election fever. Mike McCormick: I wrote my book in March. I thought I was publishing my book for the primary season, a time when Americans decide the Democratic leader. Joe Biden became the frontrunner and the pandemic hit. All democratic party events went online. No one got the chance to see what Biden was doing for months. In June, I sent a copy of my book to every Senator on the list of Senate Homeland Security Committee who are investigating Hunter Biden's activities. Joe Biden's Vice Presential pick Kamala Harris got a copy of my book in the mail in June. If she didn't they do not post the US Pose Service. I wrote my second book to tell the truth about Joe Biden. My first book was about how the White House press is lenient towards Joe Biden and Barack Obama. WION: Are tell-all books by close staffers an ethical practice? Mike McCormick: Tell-all books need to be judged by their merit and credibility. In my case, I was an eye witness and used White House sources and transcripts. An informed voter is the best voter and they need to know the truth before the elections.

US election 2020: Biden is 'unfit' to become the next president, says former White House stenographer Mike McCormick to WION

During his visit to the United Arab Emirates, the White House Adviser Jared Kushner said that he is hoping other Arab nations would normalise their relations with Israel. So far no Arab country other than UAE has discussed any measures to normalise ties with Israel.

White House Adviser Kushner visited UAE on a diplomatic tour

On August 30 in Jerusalem, US President Donald Trump's top adviser Jared Kushner held a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Together, they promised to pursue peace with the Arab world.&nbsp;“We will continue to pursue peace between Israel, the biblical homeland of the Jewish people and its Arab and muslim neighbours and i have never been more hopeful about peace”, said Jared Kushner

“We're all thrilled by the pace, the swift pace of normalisation between Israel and the UAE”, announced Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu.

On August 31, the Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv began preparations for some high profile check-ins and to make history.

"Today we are making history, today we are living history. Today is the first direct flight from Tel Aviv to Abu Dhabi ever”, said Ofir Gendelman, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's spokesperson to the Arab media.

First major step

Marking the first major step after the announcement of a peace deal, delegates from Israel and the US reached Abu Dhabi today.

After landing, Kushner said, “I prayed yesterday at the (western) wall that Muslims and Arabs from throughout the world will be watching this flight, recognising that we are all children of god, and that the future does not have to be pre-determined by the past”.

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The captain&nbsp;of an "Israeli el al airlines"&nbsp;greeted the passengers on this historic flight in three different languages.

“Ladies and gentleman shalom and welcome on board el al flight 971 from tel aviv to abu dhabi. This is captain Tal Becker speaking”, the captain announced.

“For the very first time Israeli registered, an Israeli registered aircraft, overflies (flies over) Saudi Arabia”, Becker added.

At around 4 pm Gulf Standard Time, the flight landed in Abu Dhabi. The delegates received a warm welcome from Emirati officials.

Jared Kushner made another statement calling for peace.&nbsp;“This three-hour flight has taken more than 70 years to make, it marks a new turning point in Israel's relations with the Arab world. There are big prizes for all three players”, he said.

“For Israel, this may lead to regional recognition of the Jewish state by other Arab countries. For the UAE, the sheikhdom's glittering finance hubs stand to benefit from west Asia's most prominent security superpower. And for America, Donald Trump a president under pressure will showcase a historic peace deal in West Asia”, he added.

On August 30 in Jerusalem, US President Donald Trump's top adviser Jared Kushner held a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Together, they promised to pursue peace with the Arab world.

On August 30 in Jerusalem, US President Donald Trump's top adviser Jared Kushner held a press conference with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Together, they promised to pursue peace with the Arab world. “We will continue to pursue peace between Israel, the biblical homeland of the Jewish people and its Arab and muslim neighbours and i have never been more hopeful about peace”, said Jared Kushner “We're all thrilled by the pace, the swift pace of normalisation between Israel and the UAE”, announced Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu. On August 31, the Ben Gurion airport in Tel Aviv began preparations for some high profile check-ins and to make history. "Today we are making history, today we are living history. Today is the first direct flight from Tel Aviv to Abu Dhabi ever”, said Ofir Gendelman, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's spokesperson to the Arab media. First major step Marking the first major step after the announcement of a peace deal, delegates from Israel and the US reached Abu Dhabi today. After landing, Kushner said, “I prayed yesterday at the (western) wall that Muslims and Arabs from throughout the world will be watching this flight, recognising that we are all children of god, and that the future does not have to be pre-determined by the past”. × The captain of an "Israeli el al airlines" greeted the passengers on this historic flight in three different languages. “Ladies and gentleman shalom and welcome on board el al flight 971 from tel aviv to abu dhabi. This is captain Tal Becker speaking”, the captain announced. “For the very first time Israeli registered, an Israeli registered aircraft, overflies (flies over) Saudi Arabia”, Becker added. At around 4 pm Gulf Standard Time, the flight landed in Abu Dhabi. The delegates received a warm welcome from Emirati officials. Jared Kushner made another statement calling for peace. “This three-hour flight has taken more than 70 years to make, it marks a new turning point in Israel's relations with the Arab world. There are big prizes for all three players”, he said. “For Israel, this may lead to regional recognition of the Jewish state by other Arab countries. For the UAE, the sheikhdom's glittering finance hubs stand to benefit from west Asia's most prominent security superpower. And for America, Donald Trump a president under pressure will showcase a historic peace deal in West Asia”, he added.

First direct commercial flight from Israel to UAE makes history

The Israeli flag carrier’s flight marked the implementation of the historic U.S.-brokered deal to normalize relations between the two nations

First direct Israel-UAE flight lands in Abu Dhabi

White House advisor Jared Kushner, boarding the first Israel-UAE commercial flight following a US-brokered deal to normalise ties, voiced hope Monday for a more peaceful era in the region. 
 
Flight 971 of Israel's national carrier El Al then took off from Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, bound for Abu Dhabi. 
 
The historic flight was carrying a joint US-Israeli delegation that was led on the American side by Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="/world/israeli-and-us-officials-to-fly-to-uae-to-cement-normalisation-deal-324228" hreflang="en">Israeli and US officials to fly to UAE to cement 'normalisation' deal</a> 
 
"While this is a historic flight, we hope that it will start an even more historic journey in the Middle East and beyond," Kushner said shortly before boarding. 
 
"The future does not have to be predetermined by the past. This is a very hopeful time, and I believe that so much peace and prosperity is possible in this region and around the world." 
 
The Israel-UAE agreement to normalise ties was announced by Trump on August 13, making the UAE the first Gulf country and only the third Arab nation to establish relations with Israel, after Egypt and Jordan.&nbsp; 
 
The word "peace" was painted on the plane's cockpit in Arabic, English and Hebrew.

White House advisor Jared Kushner, boarding the first Israel-UAE commercial flight following a US-brokered deal to normalise ties, voiced hope Monday for a more peaceful era in the region.

White House advisor Jared Kushner, boarding the first Israel-UAE commercial flight following a US-brokered deal to normalise ties, voiced hope Monday for a more peaceful era in the region. Flight 971 of Israel's national carrier El Al then took off from Ben Gurion International Airport near Tel Aviv, bound for Abu Dhabi. The historic flight was carrying a joint US-Israeli delegation that was led on the American side by Kushner, President Donald Trump's son-in-law. Also read: Israeli and US officials to fly to UAE to cement 'normalisation' deal "While this is a historic flight, we hope that it will start an even more historic journey in the Middle East and beyond," Kushner said shortly before boarding. "The future does not have to be predetermined by the past. This is a very hopeful time, and I believe that so much peace and prosperity is possible in this region and around the world." The Israel-UAE agreement to normalise ties was announced by Trump on August 13, making the UAE the first Gulf country and only the third Arab nation to establish relations with Israel, after Egypt and Jordan. The word "peace" was painted on the plane's cockpit in Arabic, English and Hebrew.

Israel-UAE flight may start 'historic' Mideast journey: Kushner             

US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior aide Jared Kushner on Thursday criticized a walkout by NBA stars protesting against racism and police brutality, saying they were fortunate to be rich enough to take the night off.

The Milwaukee Bucks led the boycott over another police shooting of a black man, forcing the league to halt its playoff schedule and prompting a wave of walkouts in other sports.

The NBA postponed its Wednesday evening fixtures after the Bucks refused to play the Orlando Magic in protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin on Sunday.

"The players in the NBA... have the luxury of taking a night off from work -- most Americans don't have the financial luxury to do that," said Kushner in an interview with the Politico news site.

"I think that it's nice that they're standing up for the issue but I'd like to see them start moving into concrete solutions that are productive."

Los Angeles Lakers superstar Lebron James voiced solidarity with the Bucks.

"WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT," James, who has launched several anti-racism initiatives, tweeted.

When told of James's record of anti-racism work, Kushner said that "if LeBron James reached out to the White House and we reach out to him, we're happy to talk with him and say, 'look, let's both agree on what we want to accomplish.'"

The NBA postponements marked a dramatic escalation in the league's calls for social justice, which have reverberated across US sport since the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May.

Large nationwide protests have been marked by violence and looting.

"I do think that peaceful protest has a place and it has importance," Kushner said. "You don't improve wealth equality by rioting and burning down stores."

US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior aide Jared Kushner on Thursday criticized a walkout by NBA stars protesting against racism and police brutality, saying they were fortunate to be rich enough to take the night off.

US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior aide Jared Kushner on Thursday criticized a walkout by NBA stars protesting against racism and police brutality, saying they were fortunate to be rich enough to take the night off. The Milwaukee Bucks led the boycott over another police shooting of a black man, forcing the league to halt its playoff schedule and prompting a wave of walkouts in other sports. The NBA postponed its Wednesday evening fixtures after the Bucks refused to play the Orlando Magic in protest over the shooting of Jacob Blake in Wisconsin on Sunday. "The players in the NBA... have the luxury of taking a night off from work -- most Americans don't have the financial luxury to do that," said Kushner in an interview with the Politico news site. "I think that it's nice that they're standing up for the issue but I'd like to see them start moving into concrete solutions that are productive." Los Angeles Lakers superstar Lebron James voiced solidarity with the Bucks. "WE DEMAND CHANGE. SICK OF IT," James, who has launched several anti-racism initiatives, tweeted. When told of James's record of anti-racism work, Kushner said that "if LeBron James reached out to the White House and we reach out to him, we're happy to talk with him and say, 'look, let's both agree on what we want to accomplish.'" The NBA postponements marked a dramatic escalation in the league's calls for social justice, which have reverberated across US sport since the killing of unarmed black man George Floyd by Minneapolis police in May. Large nationwide protests have been marked by violence and looting. "I do think that peaceful protest has a place and it has importance," Kushner said. "You don't improve wealth equality by rioting and burning down stores."

Donald Trump son-in-law says NBA stars lucky to be able to afford racism walkout

Israel is gearing up for its first commercial flight between Tel Aviv and Abu Dhabi. The flight, which is expected to happen next week, is further affirmation of Israel’s stance and support of the recent Israel–UAE normalization agreement

UAE becomes third Arab nation to forge ties with Israel

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations.

Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and President Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner plan to make separate, multiple-nation visits to the region in the coming days.

Pompeo is expected to depart on Sunday for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Sudan, according to the diplomats.

Kushner plans to leave later in the week for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, the diplomats said.

Neither trip is expected to result in announcements of immediate breakthrough, although both are aimed at finalising at least one, and potentially more, normalisation deals with Israel in the near future.

Pompeo also plans to meet in Qatar with members of the Talban to discuss intra-Afghan peace talks that are key to the withdrawal of remaining US Forces in Afghanistan.

Israel and the United Arab Emirates announced on August 13 they would establish full diplomatic relations, in a US-brokered deal that required Israel to halt its contentious plan to annex occupied West Bank land sought by the Palestinians.

The historic agreement delivered a key foreign policy victory to Trump as he seeks reelection in November.

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations.

The Trump administration will send two top officials to the Middle East this week in a bid to capitalise on momentum from the historic agreement between Israeli and the United Arab Emirates to establish diplomatic relations. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and President Donald Trump's senior adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner plan to make separate, multiple-nation visits to the region in the coming days. Pompeo is expected to depart on Sunday for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Sudan, according to the diplomats. Kushner plans to leave later in the week for Israel, Bahrain, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, the diplomats said. Neither trip is expected to result in announcements of immediate breakthrough, although both are aimed at finalising at least one, and potentially more, normalisation deals with Israel in the near future. Pompeo also plans to meet in Qatar with members of the Talban to discuss intra-Afghan peace talks that are key to the withdrawal of remaining US Forces in Afghanistan. Israel and the United Arab Emirates announced on August 13 they would establish full diplomatic relations, in a US-brokered deal that required Israel to halt its contentious plan to annex occupied West Bank land sought by the Palestinians. The historic agreement delivered a key foreign policy victory to Trump as he seeks reelection in November.

Pompeo, Kushner to travel to Mideast as US pushes for Arab-Israel peace

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo will visit Israel on Monday and the United Arab Emirates a day later to discuss the countries’ normalisation deal

Jared Kushner, Mike Pompeo to visit Middle-East after Israel-UAE deal

A former senior Trump administration official, Miles Taylor, has accused the US President Donald Trump of not taking national security issues seriously.

"What we saw week in and week out, for me, after two and a half years in that administration, was terrifying. We would go in to try to talk to him about a pressing national security issue -- cyberattack, terrorism threat -- he wasn't interested in those things. To him, they weren't priorities," Taylor says in a video produced by&nbsp;the group Republican Voters Against Trump.

Taylor, a longtime Republican,&nbsp;served as the&nbsp;chief of staff to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-says-will-accept-republican-nomination-live-from-the-white-house-321341">Also read:&nbsp;Donald Trump says will accept Republican nomination ‘live from the White House'</a>

In the video, he endorsed Joe Biden, who is contesting in the US Presidential elections 2020 against Donald Trump, and claimed the only reason behind his change of heart is that he thinks Biden will be able to protect the country, unlike Trump who, he claims, is "dangerous" for the country.&nbsp;

"Given what I have experienced in the administration, I have to support Joe Biden for president and even though I am not a Democrat, even though I disagree on key issues, I'm confident that Joe Biden will protect the country and I'm confident that he won't make the same mistakes as this President," he said.

In the video, Taylor accused trump of bias against California as it was not a "political base" for him. He claims Trump ordered FEMA to withhold the disaster funding for California, simply because the California-residents did not vote for him.

"He told us to stop giving money to people whose houses had burned down from a wildfire because he was so rageful that people in the state of California didn't support him and that politically it wasn't a base for him," Taylor said in the video.

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NEW: Testimonial ad from Trump's Former DHS Chief of Staff <a href="https://twitter.com/MilesTaylorUSA?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MilesTaylorUSA</a>, declaring his support for Joe Biden and describing Trump's presidency as "terrifying" and "actively doing damage to our security." 
 
WATCH &amp; go to <a href="https://t.co/Nz2NiSCquN">https://t.co/Nz2NiSCquN</a> for more. <a href="https://t.co/iChqOdIIew">pic.twitter.com/iChqOdIIew</a>
— Republican Voters Against Trump (@RVAT2020) <a href="https://twitter.com/RVAT2020/status/1295428130170195968?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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He further accused Trump of planning to implement a 'zero-tolerance' immigration policy which laid down plans of separating migrant families.&nbsp;"He said he wanted to go further and have a deliberate policy of ripping children away from their parents to show those parents that they shouldn't come to the border in the first place."

He also claimed that if anyone in the White House protested against Trump's illegal actions, Trump simply reminded them of the&nbsp;"magical authorities" that a President can exercise.

"He was one of the most unfocused and undisciplined senior executives I have ever encountered," Taylor said. "I came away completely equipped based on firsthand experience that the President was ill-equipped and wouldn't become equipped to do his job effectively -- and what's worse, was actively doing damage to our national security."

However,&nbsp;White House adviser Jared Kushner, who is also Trump's son-in-law, dismissed all accusation by Taylor and said,&nbsp;"It makes a lot of sense to me that he's endorsing Joe Biden because when he was working at the Department of Homeland Security, no wall was built and the border was wide open. That's why the President changed up the team there."

A former senior Trump administration official, Miles Taylor, has accused the US President Donald Trump of not taking national security issues seriously. "What we saw week in and week out, for me, after two and a half years in that administration, was terrifying.

A former senior Trump administration official, Miles Taylor, has accused the US President Donald Trump of not taking national security issues seriously. "What we saw week in and week out, for me, after two and a half years in that administration, was terrifying. We would go in to try to talk to him about a pressing national security issue -- cyberattack, terrorism threat -- he wasn't interested in those things. To him, they weren't priorities," Taylor says in a video produced by the group Republican Voters Against Trump. Taylor, a longtime Republican, served as the chief of staff to Homeland Security Secretary Kirstjen Nielsen. Also read: Donald Trump says will accept Republican nomination ‘live from the White House' In the video, he endorsed Joe Biden, who is contesting in the US Presidential elections 2020 against Donald Trump, and claimed the only reason behind his change of heart is that he thinks Biden will be able to protect the country, unlike Trump who, he claims, is "dangerous" for the country. "Given what I have experienced in the administration, I have to support Joe Biden for president and even though I am not a Democrat, even though I disagree on key issues, I'm confident that Joe Biden will protect the country and I'm confident that he won't make the same mistakes as this President," he said. In the video, Taylor accused trump of bias against California as it was not a "political base" for him. He claims Trump ordered FEMA to withhold the disaster funding for California, simply because the California-residents did not vote for him. "He told us to stop giving money to people whose houses had burned down from a wildfire because he was so rageful that people in the state of California didn't support him and that politically it wasn't a base for him," Taylor said in the video. NEW: Testimonial ad from Trump's Former DHS Chief of Staff @MilesTaylorUSA, declaring his support for Joe Biden and describing Trump's presidency as "terrifying" and "actively doing damage to our security." WATCH & go to https://t.co/Nz2NiSCquN for more. pic.twitter.com/iChqOdIIew — Republican Voters Against Trump (@RVAT2020) August 17, 2020 × He further accused Trump of planning to implement a 'zero-tolerance' immigration policy which laid down plans of separating migrant families. "He said he wanted to go further and have a deliberate policy of ripping children away from their parents to show those parents that they shouldn't come to the border in the first place." He also claimed that if anyone in the White House protested against Trump's illegal actions, Trump simply reminded them of the "magical authorities" that a President can exercise. "He was one of the most unfocused and undisciplined senior executives I have ever encountered," Taylor said. "I came away completely equipped based on firsthand experience that the President was ill-equipped and wouldn't become equipped to do his job effectively -- and what's worse, was actively doing damage to our national security." However, White House adviser Jared Kushner, who is also Trump's son-in-law, dismissed all accusation by Taylor and said, "It makes a lot of sense to me that he's endorsing Joe Biden because when he was working at the Department of Homeland Security, no wall was built and the border was wide open. That's why the President changed up the team there."

'Joe Biden will protect the country': Former senior Trump administration official

In an attempt to back his father-in-law and US President Donald Trump's argument, Jared Kushner has said he would "absolutely" send his children to schools once they reopen despite the risks of a rise in coronavirus infections.&nbsp;

Trump has continued to push for schools reopening in the US and also threatened to divert federal spending for failure to do so.&nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/at-least-97000-kids-contracted-coronavirus-in-the-last-two-weeks-of-july-in-us-319413">At least 97,000 kids contracted coronavirus in the last two weeks of July in US</a>

Kushner, who is also a White House adviser has brushed aside any concerns of children contracting the deadly virus, saying "because children have a six times higher chance to die from the flu than from the coronavirus, so based on the data I've seen I don’t believe that’s a risk," in an interview to CBS's Face the Nation on Sunday.&nbsp;

"Our school’s not opening back up five days a week, I wish they would but we absolutely will be sending our kids back."

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-once-again-speaks-in-favour-of-reopening-schools-317915">Donald Trump once again speaks in favour of reopening schools</a>

On Wednesday, Trump has released eight recommendations for schools to resume working, which includes providing 125 million reusable masks to school districts across the country.

There have not been enough studies on how coronavirus reacts to children, however, some schools in the US reported a sharp uptick in coronavirus cases after reopening.&nbsp;

A few days ago, a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed that 97,000 children in the US tested positive for COVID-19 in the last two weeks of July.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

In an attempt to back his father-in-law and US President Donald Trump's argument, Jared Kushner has said he would "absolutely" send his children to schools once they reopen despite the risks of a rise in coronavirus infections.

In an attempt to back his father-in-law and US President Donald Trump's argument, Jared Kushner has said he would "absolutely" send his children to schools once they reopen despite the risks of a rise in coronavirus infections. Trump has continued to push for schools reopening in the US and also threatened to divert federal spending for failure to do so. Also read | At least 97,000 kids contracted coronavirus in the last two weeks of July in US Kushner, who is also a White House adviser has brushed aside any concerns of children contracting the deadly virus, saying "because children have a six times higher chance to die from the flu than from the coronavirus, so based on the data I've seen I don’t believe that’s a risk," in an interview to CBS's Face the Nation on Sunday. "Our school’s not opening back up five days a week, I wish they would but we absolutely will be sending our kids back." Also read | Donald Trump once again speaks in favour of reopening schools On Wednesday, Trump has released eight recommendations for schools to resume working, which includes providing 125 million reusable masks to school districts across the country. There have not been enough studies on how coronavirus reacts to children, however, some schools in the US reported a sharp uptick in coronavirus cases after reopening. A few days ago, a report from the American Academy of Pediatrics revealed that 97,000 children in the US tested positive for COVID-19 in the last two weeks of July.

Would 'absolutely' send my children when schools reopen: Jared Kushner

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies.

The mixed response highlighted new fault lines in a region where fear and distrust of Iran - shared by Israel and some Arab states - has challenged a decades-old allegiance to the Palestinian issue as a major driver of Arab policy.

Palestinians, who want to establish a state on West Bank territory captured by Israel in 1967, denounced the agreement as a betrayal of the long-held Arab stance that peace should be conditional on Israeli withdrawal from occupied territory.

The agreement, which is set to make the UAE only the third Arab state after Egypt and Jordan to make peace with Israel, calls for a temporary suspension of Israel’s planned annexation of occupied West Bank territory, but not withdrawal.

The deal, which U.S. President Donald Trump helped to broker with support from senior adviser Jared Kushner, forms a new axis with the UAE aligning itself with Israel in confronting Shi’ite Muslim Iran and Sunni Islamist radicals in the region.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/gravitas-israel-uae-deal-can-trump-ensure-peace-in-west-asia-320609">Also watch|&nbsp;Gravitas: Israel-UAE deal: Can Trump ensure peace in West Asia?</a>

This is likely to heighten tensions in the Gulf, which has in the past two years seen attacks on tankers and energy assets that the United States and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran, a charge Tehran denies.

Iran’s foreign minister said the deal aimed to hand Trump a win ahead of U.S. elections in November, a view echoed by the leader of Lebanon’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement.

“It’s shameful what Abu Dhabi did ... They don’t see the Zionist regime as an enemy, but an ally and what’s happening now is to help Trump in the elections,” Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif told Al Mayadeen TV.

Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in a televised speech, described the UAE move as an “election favour” for both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and said more Arab states would follow suit to “satisfy” Washington.

“It is good, though painful, that the masks have fallen,” he said, describing the deal as a betrayal of Islam and Arabs.

'Fall like dominoes'

Some worshippers at Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, where Palestinians want to establish the capital of a future state, carried pictures of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed with the word “traitor” underneath his image.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/israel-uae-peace-deal-netanyahu-hails-new-era-for-israel-320345">Also watch|&nbsp;Israel -UAE peace deal: Netanyahu hails new era for Israel</a>

“Just like Egypt, Jordan and now Abu Dhabi, the whole Arab world will start to fall like dominoes,” said Mohammad al-Sharif, 45, a member of Israel’s Arab minority. “That Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and his dirty dogs look out for themselves and their interests and the rest of us can go to hell.”

Palestine Liberation Organization Secretary General Saeb Erekat spelled out the potential consequences for his people if a united Arab front splintered.

“The whole thing that we based our strategy on as Arabs is that the (2002) Arab peace initiative specified that once Israel withdraws, there will be peace between Arabs and Israelis.

“Netanyahu came determined, with Kushner, Trump... to change the formula, that they want Arab recognition of Israel while they continue with the occupation, and the United Arab Emirates yesterday stamped the green light for this,” Erekat said.

Turkey may shut embassy

Turkey, a powerful regional rival of the UAE, said history would not forgive the Gulf country for making a deal which undercut the 2002 Arab peace plan, which had proposed peace in return for Israeli withdrawal from all occupied territory.

“We may also take a step in the direction of suspending diplomatic ties with the Abu Dhabi leadership or pulling back our ambassador,” President Tayyip Erdogan said after Friday prayers, adding that he could close Turkey’s embassy.

But, in a region beset with other challenges including civil wars, poverty and economic crisis, some people appeared to have other concerns.

At Istanbul’s landmark Hagia Sophia, converted by Erdogan to a mosque last month in a move which he portrayed as a step towards restoring “freedom” to Al Aqsa in Jerusalem, worshippers who spoke to Reuters were unaware of the announcement.

Incentive for peace

Egypt and Jordan, which signed peace deals with Israel in 1979 and 1994 respectively and enjoy close ties with the UAE, both welcomed the agreement. Jordan said the pact could make a beneficial impact if it spurred Israel to accept a Palestinian state on land it took in the 1967 Middle East war.

“If Israel deals with it as an incentive to end occupation..., it will move the region towards a just peace,” Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said.

Oman and Bahrain praised the accord but Saudi Arabia, which has in the past led Arab policy towards Israel and hosts Islam’s two holiest sites, has remained silent, as have Kuwait and Qatar.

Jordan’s former foreign minister, Marwan al-Muasher, said it was possible other Gulf states could follow Abu Dhabi’s lead. But none of those could address the root problem.

“In the end it’s not the Gulf states who are living under occupation, it’s the Palestinians. And until you reach a solution with the Palestinians, it does not matter how many peace deals you make with Arab states,” he told Reuters.

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies.

From cries of “betrayal” to fears about “falling dominoes”, the deal making the United Arab Emirates the third Arab state to forge ties with Israel stirred anger and dismay around the Middle East, but a cautious welcome from the UAE’s Gulf allies. The mixed response highlighted new fault lines in a region where fear and distrust of Iran - shared by Israel and some Arab states - has challenged a decades-old allegiance to the Palestinian issue as a major driver of Arab policy. Palestinians, who want to establish a state on West Bank territory captured by Israel in 1967, denounced the agreement as a betrayal of the long-held Arab stance that peace should be conditional on Israeli withdrawal from occupied territory. The agreement, which is set to make the UAE only the third Arab state after Egypt and Jordan to make peace with Israel, calls for a temporary suspension of Israel’s planned annexation of occupied West Bank territory, but not withdrawal. The deal, which U.S. President Donald Trump helped to broker with support from senior adviser Jared Kushner, forms a new axis with the UAE aligning itself with Israel in confronting Shi’ite Muslim Iran and Sunni Islamist radicals in the region. Also watch| Gravitas: Israel-UAE deal: Can Trump ensure peace in West Asia? This is likely to heighten tensions in the Gulf, which has in the past two years seen attacks on tankers and energy assets that the United States and Saudi Arabia have blamed on Iran, a charge Tehran denies. Iran’s foreign minister said the deal aimed to hand Trump a win ahead of U.S. elections in November, a view echoed by the leader of Lebanon’s Iranian-backed Hezbollah movement. “It’s shameful what Abu Dhabi did ... They don’t see the Zionist regime as an enemy, but an ally and what’s happening now is to help Trump in the elections,” Iran’s Mohammad Javad Zarif told Al Mayadeen TV. Hezbollah leader Sayyed Hassan Nasrallah, in a televised speech, described the UAE move as an “election favour” for both Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and said more Arab states would follow suit to “satisfy” Washington. “It is good, though painful, that the masks have fallen,” he said, describing the deal as a betrayal of Islam and Arabs. 'Fall like dominoes' Some worshippers at Al Aqsa mosque in Jerusalem, where Palestinians want to establish the capital of a future state, carried pictures of UAE Crown Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed with the word “traitor” underneath his image. Also watch| Israel -UAE peace deal: Netanyahu hails new era for Israel “Just like Egypt, Jordan and now Abu Dhabi, the whole Arab world will start to fall like dominoes,” said Mohammad al-Sharif, 45, a member of Israel’s Arab minority. “That Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed and his dirty dogs look out for themselves and their interests and the rest of us can go to hell.” Palestine Liberation Organization Secretary General Saeb Erekat spelled out the potential consequences for his people if a united Arab front splintered. “The whole thing that we based our strategy on as Arabs is that the (2002) Arab peace initiative specified that once Israel withdraws, there will be peace between Arabs and Israelis. “Netanyahu came determined, with Kushner, Trump... to change the formula, that they want Arab recognition of Israel while they continue with the occupation, and the United Arab Emirates yesterday stamped the green light for this,” Erekat said. Turkey may shut embassy Turkey, a powerful regional rival of the UAE, said history would not forgive the Gulf country for making a deal which undercut the 2002 Arab peace plan, which had proposed peace in return for Israeli withdrawal from all occupied territory. “We may also take a step in the direction of suspending diplomatic ties with the Abu Dhabi leadership or pulling back our ambassador,” President Tayyip Erdogan said after Friday prayers, adding that he could close Turkey’s embassy. But, in a region beset with other challenges including civil wars, poverty and economic crisis, some people appeared to have other concerns. At Istanbul’s landmark Hagia Sophia, converted by Erdogan to a mosque last month in a move which he portrayed as a step towards restoring “freedom” to Al Aqsa in Jerusalem, worshippers who spoke to Reuters were unaware of the announcement. Incentive for peace Egypt and Jordan, which signed peace deals with Israel in 1979 and 1994 respectively and enjoy close ties with the UAE, both welcomed the agreement. Jordan said the pact could make a beneficial impact if it spurred Israel to accept a Palestinian state on land it took in the 1967 Middle East war. “If Israel deals with it as an incentive to end occupation..., it will move the region towards a just peace,” Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi said. Oman and Bahrain praised the accord but Saudi Arabia, which has in the past led Arab policy towards Israel and hosts Islam’s two holiest sites, has remained silent, as have Kuwait and Qatar. Jordan’s former foreign minister, Marwan al-Muasher, said it was possible other Gulf states could follow Abu Dhabi’s lead. But none of those could address the root problem. “In the end it’s not the Gulf states who are living under occupation, it’s the Palestinians. And until you reach a solution with the Palestinians, it does not matter how many peace deals you make with Arab states,” he told Reuters.

UAE's Israel deal met with Arab dismay but quiet welcome in Gulf

Donald Trump's campaign manager Brad Parscale has felt the president's wrath after his Tulsa Rally attracted just a sparse crowd despite claiming that many hundreds of thousands have applied for the ticket.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kpop-fans-and-tiktok-users-played-trump-hundreds-of-seats-remain-empty-in-tulsa-rally-307532">KPop fans and TikTok users played Trump; hundreds of seats remain empty</a>

The BOK Center in the Oklahoma City hosted the president on Saturday, it was his first campaign speech since the coronavirus pandemic. Many seats could be seen empty during the rally.&nbsp;

The Arena holds the capacity of 19,000, and according to Trump's campaign, 12,000 people attended the rally. But the actual figures were only 6,200, as per Tulsa fire department said.

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An "overflow" stage was built outside the BOK Center, where Donald Trump and Mike Pence was set to give brief remarks, but due to low turnout, the speeches were cancelled.&nbsp;

Despite being quite on Twitter, Donald Trump was reported to be "angry" after the rally. According to NBC, Trump was "particularly angry that before he even left DC, aides made public that six members of the team in Tulsa tested positive for Covid-19".

According to a CNN report, Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner were angry at Parscale, as he promised a humongous crowd.&nbsp;

Earlier this week, Trump had said more than a million people wanted to attend his rally.&nbsp;

In a statement, Parscale blamed the low attendance during Tulsa rally on "a week’s worth of the fake news media warning people away from the rally because of COVID and protesters", which he said, "coupled with recent images of American cities on fire, had a real impact on people bringing their families and children to the rally".

Parscale went to criticize the journalists for being critical of Trump's campaign.&nbsp;

"For the media to now celebrate the fear that they helped create is disgusting, but typical," he said. "And it makes us wonder why we bother credentialing media for events when they don’t do their full jobs as professionals."

In 2016, Parscale played a huge role in Trump being elected as the President and the pressure is on re-election after Trump wants a reorganisation after bad polling results.

In most of the polls in the battleground states, Trump trails behind Joe Biden.&nbsp;

Donald Trump's campaign manager Brad Parscale has felt the president's wrath after his Tulsa Rally attracted just a sparse crowd despite claiming that many hundreds of thousands have applied for the ticket.

Donald Trump's campaign manager Brad Parscale has felt the president's wrath after his Tulsa Rally attracted just a sparse crowd despite claiming that many hundreds of thousands have applied for the ticket. Also read: KPop fans and TikTok users played Trump; hundreds of seats remain empty The BOK Center in the Oklahoma City hosted the president on Saturday, it was his first campaign speech since the coronavirus pandemic. Many seats could be seen empty during the rally. The Arena holds the capacity of 19,000, and according to Trump's campaign, 12,000 people attended the rally. But the actual figures were only 6,200, as per Tulsa fire department said. An "overflow" stage was built outside the BOK Center, where Donald Trump and Mike Pence was set to give brief remarks, but due to low turnout, the speeches were cancelled. Despite being quite on Twitter, Donald Trump was reported to be "angry" after the rally. According to NBC, Trump was "particularly angry that before he even left DC, aides made public that six members of the team in Tulsa tested positive for Covid-19". According to a CNN report, Trump's daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner were angry at Parscale, as he promised a humongous crowd. Earlier this week, Trump had said more than a million people wanted to attend his rally. In a statement, Parscale blamed the low attendance during Tulsa rally on "a week’s worth of the fake news media warning people away from the rally because of COVID and protesters", which he said, "coupled with recent images of American cities on fire, had a real impact on people bringing their families and children to the rally". Parscale went to criticize the journalists for being critical of Trump's campaign. "For the media to now celebrate the fear that they helped create is disgusting, but typical," he said. "And it makes us wonder why we bother credentialing media for events when they don’t do their full jobs as professionals." In 2016, Parscale played a huge role in Trump being elected as the President and the pressure is on re-election after Trump wants a reorganisation after bad polling results. In most of the polls in the battleground states, Trump trails behind Joe Biden.

Campaign manager Brad Parscale feels president's wrath after sparse crowd shows up for Trump's Tulsa rally

US first daughter Ivanka Trump&nbsp;hit out at “cancel culture and viewpoint discrimination” after plans for her to give a virtual commencement speech to students in Kansas were canceled amid criticism of Donald Trump’s response to anti-police brutality protests in the wake of the killing of George Floyd.

Administrators at Wichita State University and WSU Tech announced their decision just hours after they had said the US president’s daughter would be speaking to WSU Tech graduates. Administrators of both universities, which are affiliated, said Saturday’s graduation for the technical university would be “refocused” on students, with a nursing graduate as the only speaker.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/washington-gears-up-for-major-protest-as-us-officials-move-to-rein-in-police-303848" hreflang="en">Washington gears up for major protest as US officials move to rein in police</a>

The move clearly angered Ivanka Trump, who is a top adviser in the White House and whose husband, Jared Kushner, is one of the most influential figures in the Trump administration.

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Our nation’s campuses should be bastions of free speech. Cancel culture and viewpoint discrimination are antithetical to academia. 
 
Listening to one another is important now more than ever!<a href="https://t.co/VW6W8TIL9c">https://t.co/VW6W8TIL9c</a>
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/IvankaTrump/status/1269044636590497792?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 5, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The announcement of her speech drew immediate criticism, led by Jennifer Ray, an associate professor of photo media at Wichita State, who sent a letter asking school administrators to cancel it. It circulated on social media and garnered 488 signatures from faculty, students and alumni before the speech was canceled, the Wichita Eagle reported.

But others said the event should not have been canceled. Republican congressman Ron Estes said in a statement he was “disappointed” and added: “As Kansas faces many challenges recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic to get back to our booming economy, now is the time for us to be working together.”

Protests have broken out around the world since Floyd, who was black, died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pressed a knee on his neck for several minutes even after he stopped moving and pleading for air. Much of the response to the protests by American police has been brutal and acts of violence against demonstrators and media have been common.

US first daughter Ivanka Trump hit out at “cancel culture and viewpoint discrimination” after plans for her to give a virtual commencement speech to students in Kansas were canceled amid criticism of Donald Trump’s response to anti-police brutality protests in the wake of the killing of George Floyd.

US first daughter Ivanka Trump hit out at “cancel culture and viewpoint discrimination” after plans for her to give a virtual commencement speech to students in Kansas were canceled amid criticism of Donald Trump’s response to anti-police brutality protests in the wake of the killing of George Floyd. Administrators at Wichita State University and WSU Tech announced their decision just hours after they had said the US president’s daughter would be speaking to WSU Tech graduates. Administrators of both universities, which are affiliated, said Saturday’s graduation for the technical university would be “refocused” on students, with a nursing graduate as the only speaker. Also read: Washington gears up for major protest as US officials move to rein in police The move clearly angered Ivanka Trump, who is a top adviser in the White House and whose husband, Jared Kushner, is one of the most influential figures in the Trump administration. Our nation’s campuses should be bastions of free speech. Cancel culture and viewpoint discrimination are antithetical to academia. Listening to one another is important now more than ever!https://t.co/VW6W8TIL9c — Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) June 5, 2020 × The announcement of her speech drew immediate criticism, led by Jennifer Ray, an associate professor of photo media at Wichita State, who sent a letter asking school administrators to cancel it. It circulated on social media and garnered 488 signatures from faculty, students and alumni before the speech was canceled, the Wichita Eagle reported. But others said the event should not have been canceled. Republican congressman Ron Estes said in a statement he was “disappointed” and added: “As Kansas faces many challenges recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic to get back to our booming economy, now is the time for us to be working together.” Protests have broken out around the world since Floyd, who was black, died in Minneapolis after a white police officer pressed a knee on his neck for several minutes even after he stopped moving and pleading for air. Much of the response to the protests by American police has been brutal and acts of violence against demonstrators and media have been common.

Ivanka Trump cribs about 'cancel culture' after university cancels her speech

Are six medical supplies companies profiteering from the Coronavirus outbreak in the US? A program created by US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner is now under the scanner of lawmakers.

Gravitas: Is a 'medical cartel' controlling coronavirus supplies in the US?

President Trump's eldest daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner reportedly traveled from Washington DC to New Jersey earlier this month to celebrate the first night of Passover, despite federal guidelines advising against nonessential travel due to the coronavirus outbreak.

Ivanka Trump defies US govt's advisory: Travelled to New Jersey amid coronavirus pandemic

12 senior members of the Trump administration are accompanying the US president on his visit to India. Wion's Palki tells you all that you need to know about Team Trump.

Gravitas: Trump's India visit: Meet team Trump

US President Donald Trump expressed his pleasure after visiting Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, by describing it a "timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture".&nbsp;

Trump, who arrived in India today, went to Agra to visit Taj Mahal, along with his wife Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner.&nbsp;

Watch:

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TrumpIndiaVisit?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TrumpIndiaVisit</a> | The Trumps at the iconic monument of love 
 
Watch <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@realDonaldTrump</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/FLOTUS?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@FLOTUS</a>' visit to the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TajMahal?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TajMahal</a> 
 
'Timeless testament of divine beauty and love' says the U.S President on the Taj Mahal <a href="https://t.co/DAoglrGcqL">pic.twitter.com/DAoglrGcqL</a>
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"Taj Mahal inspires awe, a timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture! Thank you, India," wrote Trump in the visitor's book.&nbsp;

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US President Donald Trump's message in the visitor's book at the Taj Mahal- "Taj Mahal inspires awe, a timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture! Thank you, India". <a href="https://t.co/QtD87OeiYk">pic.twitter.com/QtD87OeiYk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1231911610731466753?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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At Taj Mahal, Trump and Melania were seen walking hand in hand where a guide shared the insights of the 17th-century masterpiece. Ivanka and Jared also explored the beauty of the historic site and also posed for the cameras.&nbsp;

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Agra: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Taj Mahal. <a href="https://t.co/DOd4tu8iOQ">pic.twitter.com/DOd4tu8iOQ</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1231907428804882435?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 24, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Uttar Pradesh: US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner at the Taj Mahal in Agra. <a href="https://t.co/c2zxTQMeZ5">pic.twitter.com/c2zxTQMeZ5</a>
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Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath presented a portrait of Taj Mahal to Trump and the first lady after they concluded their visit and departed for Delhi.&nbsp;

Earlier, Adityanath and UP Governor Anandiben Patel welcomed Trump and his family after they landed in Agra in the evening today.&nbsp;

Before leaving for Agra, Trump told reporters that he has never visited the iconic site but heard that it's "incredible".&nbsp;

Trump, today, began his two-day visit to India, where he was received by PM Narendra Modi at Ahmedabad airport. Trump visited Sabarmati Ashram and inaugurated Motera cricket stadium before heading to Agra.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump expressed his pleasure after visiting Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, by describing it a "timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture".

US President Donald Trump expressed his pleasure after visiting Taj Mahal, one of the seven wonders of the world, by describing it a "timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture". Trump, who arrived in India today, went to Agra to visit Taj Mahal, along with his wife Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner. Watch: #TrumpIndiaVisit | The Trumps at the iconic monument of love Watch @realDonaldTrump and @FLOTUS' visit to the #TajMahal 'Timeless testament of divine beauty and love' says the U.S President on the Taj Mahal pic.twitter.com/DAoglrGcqL — WION (@WIONews) February 24, 2020 × "Taj Mahal inspires awe, a timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture! Thank you, India," wrote Trump in the visitor's book. US President Donald Trump's message in the visitor's book at the Taj Mahal- "Taj Mahal inspires awe, a timeless testament to the rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture! Thank you, India". pic.twitter.com/QtD87OeiYk — ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020 × At Taj Mahal, Trump and Melania were seen walking hand in hand where a guide shared the insights of the 17th-century masterpiece. Ivanka and Jared also explored the beauty of the historic site and also posed for the cameras. Agra: US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump at the Taj Mahal. pic.twitter.com/DOd4tu8iOQ — ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020 × Uttar Pradesh: US President Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner at the Taj Mahal in Agra. pic.twitter.com/c2zxTQMeZ5 — ANI (@ANI) February 24, 2020 × Uttar Pradesh CM Yogi Adityanath presented a portrait of Taj Mahal to Trump and the first lady after they concluded their visit and departed for Delhi. Earlier, Adityanath and UP Governor Anandiben Patel welcomed Trump and his family after they landed in Agra in the evening today. Before leaving for Agra, Trump told reporters that he has never visited the iconic site but heard that it's "incredible". Trump, today, began his two-day visit to India, where he was received by PM Narendra Modi at Ahmedabad airport. Trump visited Sabarmati Ashram and inaugurated Motera cricket stadium before heading to Agra.

Taj Mahal, a testament to rich and diverse beauty of Indian culture: Donald Trump

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

Sources say US National Security Advisor Robert O' Brien, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette and Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin will also be part of the delegation. However, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer who skipped his meeting with the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goel last week will not be visiting.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-in-india-hiding-the-poor-and-shantytown-of-ahmedabad-for-us-presidents-visit-281876">Trump in India - Hiding the poor and shantytown of Ahmedabad for US president's visit</a>

Although neither side expects a trade deal to be signed, 5 Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) will be signed during the US president's visit. Nuclear cooperation, homeland security, intellectual property, trade facilitation, space and science technology are likely to be on the agenda.

The government yesterday said that the relationship had to be seen not just in the context of immediate deliverables from this visit. Adding, ''Over the years, the canvas of our relationship has expanded to include several new areas. We enjoy a broad level of support from the executive branch as well as bipartisan support by the Congress.''

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/from-namaste-trump-event-to-visit-to-agra-banquet-lunch-by-pm-modi-and-more-trumps-jam-packed-india-schedule-281872">From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule</a>

The two sides have expanded their defence ties signing agreements like Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement or COMCASA as well as initiating a joint tri-services HADR exercise named Tiger Triumph as an Annual exercise. The US is India’s largest trading partner in goods and service. We have bought 18 billion dollars worth of defence equipment from the US.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/focus-on-reviewing-bilateral-ties-strengthening-global-partnership-mea-on-trumps-visit-281789">Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit</a>

Reports say, ahead of the visit, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) has approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed Martin MH60 Romeo helicopters - this will boost India's naval capacity.

This is the eighth meeting between the two leaders since 2017 and the fifth this year alone. Donald Trump, like President Obama, is making a standalone visit to India, skipping neighbour Pakistan. 
&nbsp;

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner.

US President Donald Trump will head to India for a two-day visit with a high-level delegation that will include his senior advisors - daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner. Sources say US National Security Advisor Robert O' Brien, Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross, Secretary of Energy Dan Brouillette and Secretary of the Treasury Steve Mnuchin will also be part of the delegation. However, US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer who skipped his meeting with the Indian Commerce Minister Piyush Goel last week will not be visiting. Also read: Trump in India - Hiding the poor and shantytown of Ahmedabad for US president's visit Although neither side expects a trade deal to be signed, 5 Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) will be signed during the US president's visit. Nuclear cooperation, homeland security, intellectual property, trade facilitation, space and science technology are likely to be on the agenda. The government yesterday said that the relationship had to be seen not just in the context of immediate deliverables from this visit. Adding, ''Over the years, the canvas of our relationship has expanded to include several new areas. We enjoy a broad level of support from the executive branch as well as bipartisan support by the Congress.'' Also read: From Namaste Trump event to visit to Agra - Trump's jam-packed India schedule The two sides have expanded their defence ties signing agreements like Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement or COMCASA as well as initiating a joint tri-services HADR exercise named Tiger Triumph as an Annual exercise. The US is India’s largest trading partner in goods and service. We have bought 18 billion dollars worth of defence equipment from the US. Also read: Focus on reviewing bilateral ties, strengthening global partnership - MEA on Trump's visit Reports say, ahead of the visit, the cabinet committee on security(CCS) has approved a deal to procure a batch of 24 Lockheed Martin MH60 Romeo helicopters - this will boost India's naval capacity. This is the eighth meeting between the two leaders since 2017 and the fifth this year alone. Donald Trump, like President Obama, is making a standalone visit to India, skipping neighbour Pakistan.

Ivanka Trump, Jared Kushner and NSA among Trump's high-level delegation to India

On January 28, Trump revealed the controversial plan designed by Kushner, which calls for a two-state solution while recognizing Jerusalem as Israel''s "undivided capital".

Jared Kushner to present peace plan details to UNSC

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile,&nbsp;Turkish and&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;troops traded&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;fire in&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/erdogan-threatens-military-force-against-syria-277818">Syria</a>'s northwest on Monday.

Here are the top ten stories of the day.

Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines

The death toll from China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 361 on Monday as authorities continued to grapple with the virus. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/death-toll-in-coronavirus-rises-to-361-as-man-dies-in-philippines-278197">Read more</a>

Turkey and Syrian regime engage in deadly flare-up

Turkish and&nbsp;Syrian&nbsp;troops traded&nbsp;deadly&nbsp;fire in&nbsp;Syria's northwest on Monday. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/turkey-and-syrian-regime-in-deadly-flare-up-278351">Read more</a>

Social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus

Social media platforms such as&nbsp;Facebook,&nbsp;Twitter, Youtube and&nbsp;Tiktok are taking steps to address false information about the deadly coronavirus on them. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-social-media-applications-tackling-false-claims-against-coronavirus-278258">Read more</a>

Bushfire smoke blows into Australia's capital as fire threat eases

Bushfires eased near&nbsp;Australia's&nbsp;capital, Canberra, on Monday, as temperatures dipped, but officials warned heavy&nbsp;smoke&nbsp;was set to blow into the city with a shift in the wind.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/bushfire-smoke-blows-into-australias-capital-as-fire-threat-eases-278276">Read more</a>

Spray planes can counter worst locust outbreak in eastern Africa: United Nations

Small planes that can spray pesticides are the only effective way to combat the worst locusts outbreak in 70 years in&nbsp;Kenya,&nbsp;according to the&nbsp;United Nations. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/latest-world-news-spray-planes-can-counter-worst-locust-outbreak-in-eastern-africa-united-nations-278328">Read more</a>

Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor: Report

A Chinese doctor named&nbsp;had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-news-chinese-authorities-ignored-early-reports-of-mysterious-coronavirus-by-doctor-report-278301">Read more</a>

'Britain will prosper': Prime Minister Johnson sets out tough terms for EU talks

Prime Minister&nbsp;Boris&nbsp;Johnson&nbsp;will lay&nbsp;out&nbsp;his negotiating&nbsp;terms&nbsp;for&nbsp;talks&nbsp;with the&nbsp;European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/britain-will-prosper-prime-minister-johnson-sets-out-tough-terms-for-eu-talks-278292">Read more</a>

Palestinians should come to the table and negotiate: Kushner on Middle East peace plan

Jared Kushner,&nbsp;said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then&nbsp;the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/palestinians-should-come-to-the-table-and-negotiate-kushner-on-middle-east-peace-plan-278319">Read more</a>

NFL Super Bowl: After leading Chiefs to Super Bowl win, the future belongs to Mahomes

The Kansas City Chiefs ended a 50-year Super Bowl drought with its win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in the NFL's 100th season. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nfl-super-bowl-after-leading-chiefs-to-super-bowl-win-the-future-belongs-to-mahomes-278338">Read more</a>

Today is National Sickie Day: 8.6 million claimed sick days last year due to 'painful' jobs

A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful''. <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/today-is-national-sickie-day-86-million-claimed-sick-days-last-year-due-to-painful-jobs-278223">Read more&nbsp;</a>

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile, Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday.

The total number of coronavirus infections surpassed 17,000 nationwide in China with the fatalities now exceeding the SARS outbreak-related deaths in 2002-2003. Meanwhile, Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday. Here are the top ten stories of the day. Death toll in coronavirus rises to 361 as man dies in Philippines The death toll from China's coronavirus epidemic jumped to 361 on Monday as authorities continued to grapple with the virus. Read more Turkey and Syrian regime engage in deadly flare-up Turkish and Syrian troops traded deadly fire in Syria's northwest on Monday. Read more Social media apps are fighting misinformation surrounding coronavirus Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Youtube and Tiktok are taking steps to address false information about the deadly coronavirus on them. Read more Bushfire smoke blows into Australia's capital as fire threat eases Bushfires eased near Australia's capital, Canberra, on Monday, as temperatures dipped, but officials warned heavy smoke was set to blow into the city with a shift in the wind. Read more Spray planes can counter worst locust outbreak in eastern Africa: United Nations Small planes that can spray pesticides are the only effective way to combat the worst locusts outbreak in 70 years in Kenya, according to the United Nations. Read more Chinese authorities ignored early reports of 'mysterious' coronavirus by doctor: Report A Chinese doctor named had warned about a ''mysterious illness'' which had struck seven patients at a hospital on December 30 2019. Read more 'Britain will prosper': Prime Minister Johnson sets out tough terms for EU talks Prime Minister Boris Johnson will lay out his negotiating terms for talks with the European Union on Monday, saying Britain will prosper even if he cannot strike his preferred trade deal. Read more Palestinians should come to the table and negotiate: Kushner on Middle East peace plan Jared Kushner, said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." Read more NFL Super Bowl: After leading Chiefs to Super Bowl win, the future belongs to Mahomes The Kansas City Chiefs ended a 50-year Super Bowl drought with its win over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday in the NFL's 100th season. Read more Today is National Sickie Day: 8.6 million claimed sick days last year due to 'painful' jobs A recent survey suggested that 8.6 million people claimed sick days last year because they thought their jobs were ''too painful''. Read more

Top 10 world news: Coronavirus outbreak, deadly flare-up between Turkey and Syria, NFL Superbowl and more

Jared Kushner, President Trump's White House adviser and son-in-law of the US president who has been largely responsible for stitching up the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-tells-vladimir-putin-mideast-deal-a-new-opportunity-277570">Middle East peace</a> plan has said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then&nbsp;the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-jerusalem-to-be-undivided-capital-277163">Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital</a>

In a programme on CNN with anchor Fareed Zakaria, Kushner said: "For the Palestinians, if they want their people to live better lives, we now have a framework to do it," adding, "If they don't think they can uphold these standards, then I don't think we can get Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state."

"The only thing more dangerous than what we have now is a failed state," Kushner told Zakaria.

Kushner said the peace plan was a great deal for the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-draws-flak-from-palestinians-277189">Palestinians</a> while adding that "Palestinian territories amount to a police state... not exactly a thriving democracy."

Trump's aide told CNN that if the Palestinians "come to the table and negotiate" they will get "something excellent".&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-meet-the-man-behind-middle-east-peace-plan-277295">Also Read: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan</a>

However, in a harsh tone, Kushner told the US channel that "if they screw up this opportunity - which again, they have a perfect track record of missing opportunities - if they screw this up, I think that they will have a very hard time looking the international community in the face, saying they're victims."

Several countries including Britain haven't ratified the plan. The UK foreign office said it was "concerned by reports of possible moves toward annexation of parts of the West Bank by Israel."

"Any such unilateral moves would be damaging to renewed efforts to re-start peace negotiations, and contrary to international law," it said.

The plan was rejected by the Palestinians but US President Trump insisted that "it might have a chance".

"We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians," Trump said, adding that the plan is "something they should want... it's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," while stating that "many of the Arab nations" back the plan.

Jared Kushner, President Trump's White House adviser and son-in-law of the US president who has been largely responsible for stitching up the Middle East peace plan has said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state.

Jared Kushner, President Trump's White House adviser and son-in-law of the US president who has been largely responsible for stitching up the Middle East peace plan has said that if Palestinians are unable to meet the conditions then the US wouldn't be able to get "Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital In a programme on CNN with anchor Fareed Zakaria, Kushner said: "For the Palestinians, if they want their people to live better lives, we now have a framework to do it," adding, "If they don't think they can uphold these standards, then I don't think we can get Israel to take the risk to recognize them as a state." "The only thing more dangerous than what we have now is a failed state," Kushner told Zakaria. Kushner said the peace plan was a great deal for the Palestinians while adding that "Palestinian territories amount to a police state... not exactly a thriving democracy." Trump's aide told CNN that if the Palestinians "come to the table and negotiate" they will get "something excellent". Also Read: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan However, in a harsh tone, Kushner told the US channel that "if they screw up this opportunity - which again, they have a perfect track record of missing opportunities - if they screw this up, I think that they will have a very hard time looking the international community in the face, saying they're victims." Several countries including Britain haven't ratified the plan. The UK foreign office said it was "concerned by reports of possible moves toward annexation of parts of the West Bank by Israel." "Any such unilateral moves would be damaging to renewed efforts to re-start peace negotiations, and contrary to international law," it said. The plan was rejected by the Palestinians but US President Trump insisted that "it might have a chance". "We think we will have ultimately the support of the Palestinians," Trump said, adding that the plan is "something they should want... it's very good for them, in fact it's overly good for them," while stating that "many of the Arab nations" back the plan.

Palestinians should come to the table and negotiate: Kushner on Middle East peace plan

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/benjamin-netanyahu-tells-vladimir-putin-mideast-deal-a-new-opportunity-277570">controversial peace plan</a>.

The plan released on Tuesday was seen as <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/jared-kushner-meet-the-man-behind-middle-east-peace-plan-277295">heavily biased towards Israel</a> and was angrily rejected by Palestinians, with one of the key bones of contention being its classification of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital."

Palestinians&nbsp;have long seen the city's eastern sector, which was occupied by Israel in 1967, as the capital of their future state.

At the Al-Aqsa compound in east Jerusalem, a group of Palestinians gathered after dawn prayers and "began a procession with nationalist calls," Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said.

Police "responded and dispersed the gathering," the official added. Thousands of Palestinians were expected to attend the main prayers at noon, which are often a rallying point for demonstrations.

The Al-Aqsa mosque is Islam's third holiest is also revered by Jews as the location of their Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD.

Rosenfeld said "heightened security" measures would be in place across the Old City and "police units will respond if necessary".

The Trump plan gives Israel the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/trumps-west-asia-plan-most-of-west-bank-recognised-as-israel-277297">green light to annex</a> the strategic Jordan Valley, which 30 per cent of the &nbsp;West Bank, as well as all Israeli settlements, which now number more than 200, including those in annexed east Jerusalem.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions-blogs/has-donald-trump-proposed-a-middle-east-peace-plan-or-terms-of-surrender-for-the-palestinians-277760">Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan – or terms of surrender for the Palestinians?</a>

The settlements are home to some 600,000&nbsp;&nbsp;are considered illegal under international law. Immediately after Trump presented the plan&nbsp;flanked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu,&nbsp;officials said they would swiftly send an annexation bill to the&nbsp;cabinet on Sunday.

But the situation seemed less clear on Friday, after Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner seemed to row back from initial comments by US ambassador David Friedman that Israel could move ahead with annexation immediately.

Jared said a decision would be best left until a new government has been formed after a general election scheduled for March 2, even though both major parties support it.

Gaza protests, rockets

Clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces in the West Bank have left at least 30 Palestinians wounded since Tuesday, although the demonstrations have mostly been small.

In Hamas-controlled Gaza, thousands gathered for demonstrations this week. Many more donned badges proclaiming "no to the deal of the century".

There has been some rocket fire from Gaza into on nothing like the scale of barrages launched during multiple flare-ups last year.

Israel carried out on Hamas targets in Gaza early Friday after three rockets were fired the previous evening, causing neither casualties nor damage, the army said.

One rocket was fired on Wednesday evening drawing similar retaliation.

Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year, the Islamists an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm.

Quest for Arab support

The Palestinians have sought to rally international support against the plan, which they see as illegal and a violation of their rights.

"What we're trying to do here is to get behind us, behind president Mahmud Abbas and his determination to achieve&nbsp;peace," said Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat.

But there was a muted response, even within the Arab world.

Both Egypt and the Gulf Arab states held off on any immediate criticism of their US ally, saying they would study the plan's contents.

Those governments have quietly moved closer to Israel in recent years amid shared hostility towards Iran. Abbas will try to rally opposition at an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo on Saturday.

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial peace plan.

Israeli police increased their presence in Jerusalem's Old City, ahead of the first Friday prayers at the flashpoint Al-Aqsa mosque since US President Donald Trump unveiled a controversial peace plan. The plan released on Tuesday was seen as heavily biased towards Israel and was angrily rejected by Palestinians, with one of the key bones of contention being its classification of Jerusalem as Israel's "undivided capital." Palestinians have long seen the city's eastern sector, which was occupied by Israel in 1967, as the capital of their future state. At the Al-Aqsa compound in east Jerusalem, a group of Palestinians gathered after dawn prayers and "began a procession with nationalist calls," Israeli police spokesman Micky Rosenfeld said. Police "responded and dispersed the gathering," the official added. Thousands of Palestinians were expected to attend the main prayers at noon, which are often a rallying point for demonstrations. The Al-Aqsa mosque is Islam's third holiest is also revered by Jews as the location of their Second Temple, destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD. Rosenfeld said "heightened security" measures would be in place across the Old City and "police units will respond if necessary". The Trump plan gives Israel the green light to annex the strategic Jordan Valley, which 30 per cent of the West Bank, as well as all Israeli settlements, which now number more than 200, including those in annexed east Jerusalem. Also Read: Has Donald Trump proposed a Middle East peace plan – or terms of surrender for the Palestinians? The settlements are home to some 600,000 are considered illegal under international law. Immediately after Trump presented the plan flanked by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, officials said they would swiftly send an annexation bill to the cabinet on Sunday. But the situation seemed less clear on Friday, after Trump's adviser and son-in-law Jared Kushner seemed to row back from initial comments by US ambassador David Friedman that Israel could move ahead with annexation immediately. Jared said a decision would be best left until a new government has been formed after a general election scheduled for March 2, even though both major parties support it. Gaza protests, rockets Clashes between Palestinian protesters and Israeli forces in the West Bank have left at least 30 Palestinians wounded since Tuesday, although the demonstrations have mostly been small. In Hamas-controlled Gaza, thousands gathered for demonstrations this week. Many more donned badges proclaiming "no to the deal of the century". There has been some rocket fire from Gaza into on nothing like the scale of barrages launched during multiple flare-ups last year. Israel carried out on Hamas targets in Gaza early Friday after three rockets were fired the previous evening, causing neither casualties nor damage, the army said. One rocket was fired on Wednesday evening drawing similar retaliation. Hamas and Israel have fought three wars since 2008 but over the past year, the Islamists an informal truce with Israel, under which the Jewish state has slightly eased its crippling blockade of Gaza in exchange for calm. Quest for Arab support The Palestinians have sought to rally international support against the plan, which they see as illegal and a violation of their rights. "What we're trying to do here is to get behind us, behind president Mahmud Abbas and his determination to achieve peace," said Palestinian chief negotiator Saeb Erekat. But there was a muted response, even within the Arab world. Both Egypt and the Gulf Arab states held off on any immediate criticism of their US ally, saying they would study the plan's contents. Those governments have quietly moved closer to Israel in recent years amid shared hostility towards Iran. Abbas will try to rally opposition at an emergency meeting of the Arab League in Cairo on Saturday.

Israel tightens security for first Friday prayers since Trump plan

Trump's West Asia Plan was rejected by Palestinian leaders before they saw it but the architect of the plan Jared Kushner has said that the different parts of Palestine will be linked using tunnels, bridges and huge highways. Both Kushner and Trump has called this deal as the last chance to bring peace between Israel and Palestine.

Trump's West Asia Plan is the last chance to bring peace, Says Jared Kushner & Trump

WION spoke with Political consultant and expert on British politics, Jodie Cohen on Trump's West Asia Plan which indicates that Trump has outrightly handed over Jerusalem to Israel. Watch the video for more information.

Trump's West Asia Plan: Most Of West Bank Recognised As Israel

Before becoming an Advisor to the President of the United States, Kushner was, and some would argue that he still is, a real estate developer who married Donald Trump's daughter.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/donald-trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-draws-flak-from-palestinians-277189">Also read: Palestinians livid as Trump unveils Middle-East plan with Jerusalem as Capital</a>

Per his new position, Kushner was tasked with promoting American innovation, overseeing arms sales to Saudi Arabia and resolving the US opioid crisis.

Many have speculated that Kushner was also appointed to oversee the conflict between Israel and Palestine even though he has no experience of Middle East diplomacy simply because he has close ties to the Netanyahu family.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-unveils-middle-east-peace-plan-jerusalem-to-be-undivided-capital-277163">Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital</a>

A lack of experience in Middle East negotiations could be an asset in forging a peace agreement, compared to the well-read who struggled with the matter for years in an attempt to establish checkpoints and access to Gaza.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-insists-israeli-palestinian-plan-has-a-chance-276949">Also Read: Trump insists Israeli-Palestinian plan has a 'chance'</a>

Among the matters Jared Kushner was charged with when President Trump was elected, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was one that the POTUS's son-in-law decided to begin with a completely blank slate. He was adamant at the outset to never discuss history with the Palestinians or the Israelis or anyone else.

A daring approach this was to take, especially in a region steeped in conflict since time immemorial. Kushner decided to deal with the problem by engineering a proposed settlement without any consultation with either of the parties involved. That was how this "ultimate deal" was conceived, the one Trump is expected to formally present to Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's Prime Minister at the White House.

Details of the deal have been widely criticized for favouring Israel by opening the door to its annexation of large parts of the occupied territories and giving it almost total control of Jerusalem.

Kushner's team was an obvious clue as to where the process was heading, for it included individuals such as David Friedman, a lawyer who had close ties to the Jewish settler movement in the occupied territories and the guy who Trump appointed as US ambassador to Israel.

Friedman has often likened members of a liberal US Jewish group to Nazi collaborators for their criticism of the Israeli government’s actions and questioned the need for a Palestinian State.

Palestinians were alienated by the Trump administration with a series of actions favouring Israel, such as slashing funding for Palestinian refugees and moving the US embassy to Jerusalem.

Kushner then garnered support from Egypt’s authoritarian president, the kings of Saudi Arabia and Jordan to pressure the Palestinian Authority into going along with the White House plan.

The Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman was among those wooed by Kushner, which some have speculated - alongside military contracts - could be the reason behind inaction on part of the Trump administration over the murder of the Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Before becoming an Advisor to the President of the United States, Kushner was, and some would argue that he still is, a real estate developer who married Donald Trump's daughter.

Before becoming an Advisor to the President of the United States, Kushner was, and some would argue that he still is, a real estate developer who married Donald Trump's daughter. Also read: Palestinians livid as Trump unveils Middle-East plan with Jerusalem as Capital Per his new position, Kushner was tasked with promoting American innovation, overseeing arms sales to Saudi Arabia and resolving the US opioid crisis. Many have speculated that Kushner was also appointed to oversee the conflict between Israel and Palestine even though he has no experience of Middle East diplomacy simply because he has close ties to the Netanyahu family. Also Read: Trump unveils Middle East peace plan; Jerusalem to be undivided capital A lack of experience in Middle East negotiations could be an asset in forging a peace agreement, compared to the well-read who struggled with the matter for years in an attempt to establish checkpoints and access to Gaza. Also Read: Trump insists Israeli-Palestinian plan has a 'chance' Among the matters Jared Kushner was charged with when President Trump was elected, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict was one that the POTUS's son-in-law decided to begin with a completely blank slate. He was adamant at the outset to never discuss history with the Palestinians or the Israelis or anyone else. A daring approach this was to take, especially in a region steeped in conflict since time immemorial. Kushner decided to deal with the problem by engineering a proposed settlement without any consultation with either of the parties involved. That was how this "ultimate deal" was conceived, the one Trump is expected to formally present to Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel's Prime Minister at the White House. Details of the deal have been widely criticized for favouring Israel by opening the door to its annexation of large parts of the occupied territories and giving it almost total control of Jerusalem. Kushner's team was an obvious clue as to where the process was heading, for it included individuals such as David Friedman, a lawyer who had close ties to the Jewish settler movement in the occupied territories and the guy who Trump appointed as US ambassador to Israel. Friedman has often likened members of a liberal US Jewish group to Nazi collaborators for their criticism of the Israeli government’s actions and questioned the need for a Palestinian State. Palestinians were alienated by the Trump administration with a series of actions favouring Israel, such as slashing funding for Palestinian refugees and moving the US embassy to Jerusalem. Kushner then garnered support from Egypt’s authoritarian president, the kings of Saudi Arabia and Jordan to pressure the Palestinian Authority into going along with the White House plan. The Saudi crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman was among those wooed by Kushner, which some have speculated - alongside military contracts - could be the reason behind inaction on part of the Trump administration over the murder of the Saudi dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Jared Kushner: Meet the man behind Middle-East peace plan

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/israeli-warplanes-hit-gaza-after-palestinian-rocket-attack-243596">Israeli-Palestinian peace plan</a>, announced his resignation Thursday.

Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House.

A senior administration official said Greenblatt was going to spend more time with his family but left on good terms and "holds the confidence of the president."

His departure places another question mark over the troubled plan, which Trump has touted as the "deal of the century," but has yet to see the light of day and has been rejected in advance <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/2-israelis-palestinian-assailant-hurt-in-west-bank-car-ramming-army-243502">by the Palestinians</a>.

Just a week ago, Greenblatt signalled the latest pushback to the plan's unveiling, saying it would not be released until after the September 17 Israeli election that will decide whether Trump ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stays in power.

Trump has repeatedly boasted that he is the most pro-Israeli US president in history. He has slashed aid to the Palestinians, while making big concessions to the Israelis.

According to the Republican, his vision for ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict revolves around encouraging massive economic investment. However, Palestinian leaders have dismissed the plan as one-sided and failing to address their wish to end Israeli occupation.

Netanyahu said after news of Greenblatt's departure that he thanked him "for his dedicated work for security and peace and for never hesitating to tell the truth about the state of Israel to its detractors."

Trump tweeted that Greenblatt "has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer."

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After almost 3 years in my Administration, Jason Greenblatt will be leaving to pursue work in the private sector. Jason has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer....
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1169637649151406081?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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However, Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, told AFP: "I think the Palestinians as a whole are going to say good riddance."

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, announced his resignation Thursday. Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House.

Jason Greenblatt, a key architect of President Donald Trump's much-delayed Israeli-Palestinian peace plan, announced his resignation Thursday. Greenblatt, who worked alongside Trump's powerful son-in-law Jared Kushner, said in a statement it had been "the honor of a lifetime" to work in the White House. A senior administration official said Greenblatt was going to spend more time with his family but left on good terms and "holds the confidence of the president." His departure places another question mark over the troubled plan, which Trump has touted as the "deal of the century," but has yet to see the light of day and has been rejected in advance by the Palestinians. Just a week ago, Greenblatt signalled the latest pushback to the plan's unveiling, saying it would not be released until after the September 17 Israeli election that will decide whether Trump ally Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stays in power. Trump has repeatedly boasted that he is the most pro-Israeli US president in history. He has slashed aid to the Palestinians, while making big concessions to the Israelis. According to the Republican, his vision for ending the Israeli-Palestinian conflict revolves around encouraging massive economic investment. However, Palestinian leaders have dismissed the plan as one-sided and failing to address their wish to end Israeli occupation. Netanyahu said after news of Greenblatt's departure that he thanked him "for his dedicated work for security and peace and for never hesitating to tell the truth about the state of Israel to its detractors." Trump tweeted that Greenblatt "has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer." After almost 3 years in my Administration, Jason Greenblatt will be leaving to pursue work in the private sector. Jason has been a loyal and great friend and fantastic lawyer.... — Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) September 5, 2019 × However, Hanan Ashrawi, a senior Palestinian official, told AFP: "I think the Palestinians as a whole are going to say good riddance."

Trump's key architect in Israeli-Palestinian peace deal Jason Greenblatt resigns

Israel has given rare approval to Palestinian homes in the part of the occupied West Bank it fully controls while also backing a large settlement expansion, ahead of White House advisor Jared Kushner's key visit Wednesday.

An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity Wednesday, confirmed the approval by the country's security cabinet the previous day, ahead of the arrival by US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser.

The approval of 700 homes for Palestinians and 6,000 for Israeli settlers comes as the White House seeks to promote Kushner's long-awaited peace plan.

It was not immediately clear if all of the homes would be new or if some already exist and are receiving retroactive approval.

While the number of homes approved for Palestinians is relatively small and far outweighed by the number of settlement homes, the move could allow Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to argue he is making efforts to make Kushner's plan succeed.

Kushner visited Jordan on Wednesday and was later on his way to Israel as part of a Middle East tour.

He has said his plan will not mention a two-state solution because "it means one thing to the Israelis, it means one thing to the Palestinians."

Palestinians and many governments around the world warn that continued settlement construction by Israel in the West Bank is slowly eating away at hopes for a two-state solution to the conflict.

But US ambassador to Israel David Friedman, who has been a backer of Israeli settlements, reiterated his stance in an interview with CNN late Tuesday.

Friedman said the United States was in favour of Palestinian "autonomy," but signalled Washington was not ready for now to support full statehood -- similar to Netanyahu's position.

"The issue we have is agreeing in advance to a state because the word state conjures up with it so many potential issues that we think it does a disservice for us to use that phrase," he said.

"We believe in Palestinian autonomy. We believe in Palestinian civilian self-governance. We believe that that autonomy should be extended up until the point where it interferes with Israeli security, and it's a very complicated needle to thread."

He argued that the Palestinian Authority government may currently be too weak to prevent militant groups from overrunning it, resulting in a "failed state" that threatens Israel and neighbouring Jordan.

Palestinian boycott

The White House unveiled economic aspects of its peace plan at a conference in Bahrain in June, but it was boycotted by the Palestinians.

The Palestinians froze contacts with Trump's White House after his 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and have already dismissed the peace plan as blatantly biased in favour of Israel.

In addition to the Jerusalem decision, Trump's administration has taken a series of moves against the Palestinians, including cutting hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and shutting their de facto embassy in Washington.

Tuesday's approvals are for housing in the part of the West Bank known as Area C, which is under Israeli security and civilian control and where most of its settlements are located.

Area C accounts for more than 60 per cent of the West Bank, the Palestinian territory that would form part of a future Palestinian state under the so-called two-state solution.

Israel rarely grants approvals for Palestinian construction in that area and frequently carries out demolitions of Palestinian buildings it considers illegally built.

Walid Assaf, the Palestinian Authority official who monitors Israeli settlements, told AFP the approvals were "vague and incomprehensible."

He said the approval of 700 Palestinian homes was partly a cover-up "for the construction of 6,000 settlement units to complete the outer envelope of Jerusalem, isolating it from the Palestinian territories."

The settlements are considered illegal under international law and are built on land that the Palestinians see as part of their future state.

Israel says that Palestinian intransigence, violence and incitement are the main impediments to peace.

Israel occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967.

It later annexed east Jerusalem in a move never recognised by the international community and sees the entire city as its undivided capital.

The Palestinians see east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state.

Some 600,000 Israeli settlers now live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, along with around 2.9 million Palestinians.

Israel has given rare approval to Palestinian homes in the part of the occupied West Bank it fully controls while also backing a large settlement expansion, ahead of White House advisor Jared Kushner's key visit Wednesday.

Israel has given rare approval to Palestinian homes in the part of the occupied West Bank it fully controls while also backing a large settlement expansion, ahead of White House advisor Jared Kushner's key visit Wednesday. An Israeli official, speaking on condition of anonymity Wednesday, confirmed the approval by the country's security cabinet the previous day, ahead of the arrival by US President Donald Trump's son-in-law and senior adviser. The approval of 700 homes for Palestinians and 6,000 for Israeli settlers comes as the White House seeks to promote Kushner's long-awaited peace plan. It was not immediately clear if all of the homes would be new or if some already exist and are receiving retroactive approval. While the number of homes approved for Palestinians is relatively small and far outweighed by the number of settlement homes, the move could allow Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to argue he is making efforts to make Kushner's plan succeed. Kushner visited Jordan on Wednesday and was later on his way to Israel as part of a Middle East tour. He has said his plan will not mention a two-state solution because "it means one thing to the Israelis, it means one thing to the Palestinians." Palestinians and many governments around the world warn that continued settlement construction by Israel in the West Bank is slowly eating away at hopes for a two-state solution to the conflict. But US ambassador to Israel David Friedman, who has been a backer of Israeli settlements, reiterated his stance in an interview with CNN late Tuesday. Friedman said the United States was in favour of Palestinian "autonomy," but signalled Washington was not ready for now to support full statehood -- similar to Netanyahu's position. "The issue we have is agreeing in advance to a state because the word state conjures up with it so many potential issues that we think it does a disservice for us to use that phrase," he said. "We believe in Palestinian autonomy. We believe in Palestinian civilian self-governance. We believe that that autonomy should be extended up until the point where it interferes with Israeli security, and it's a very complicated needle to thread." He argued that the Palestinian Authority government may currently be too weak to prevent militant groups from overrunning it, resulting in a "failed state" that threatens Israel and neighbouring Jordan. Palestinian boycott The White House unveiled economic aspects of its peace plan at a conference in Bahrain in June, but it was boycotted by the Palestinians. The Palestinians froze contacts with Trump's White House after his 2017 recognition of Jerusalem as Israel's capital and have already dismissed the peace plan as blatantly biased in favour of Israel. In addition to the Jerusalem decision, Trump's administration has taken a series of moves against the Palestinians, including cutting hundreds of millions of dollars in aid and shutting their de facto embassy in Washington. Tuesday's approvals are for housing in the part of the West Bank known as Area C, which is under Israeli security and civilian control and where most of its settlements are located. Area C accounts for more than 60 per cent of the West Bank, the Palestinian territory that would form part of a future Palestinian state under the so-called two-state solution. Israel rarely grants approvals for Palestinian construction in that area and frequently carries out demolitions of Palestinian buildings it considers illegally built. Walid Assaf, the Palestinian Authority official who monitors Israeli settlements, told AFP the approvals were "vague and incomprehensible." He said the approval of 700 Palestinian homes was partly a cover-up "for the construction of 6,000 settlement units to complete the outer envelope of Jerusalem, isolating it from the Palestinian territories." The settlements are considered illegal under international law and are built on land that the Palestinians see as part of their future state. Israel says that Palestinian intransigence, violence and incitement are the main impediments to peace. Israel occupied the West Bank and East Jerusalem in the Six-Day War of 1967. It later annexed east Jerusalem in a move never recognised by the international community and sees the entire city as its undivided capital. The Palestinians see east Jerusalem as the capital of their future state. Some 600,000 Israeli settlers now live in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, along with around 2.9 million Palestinians.

Kushner visits after Israel okays homes for Palestinians, settlers

White House senior adviser <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-middle-east-adviser-kushner-to-meet-european-union-leaders-224272">Jared Kushner</a> said on Wednesday that <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/saudi-crown-prince-mohammed-bin-salman-doing-spectacular-job-donald-trump-231336">US President Donald Trump</a> is fond of Palestinian President <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mahmoud-abbas-regains-health-could-be-discharged-by-tomorrow-138733">Mahmoud Abbas</a> and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture.

In a conference call with reporters, Kushner said, "Our door is always open" to the Palestinians.

The Palestinians have refused to talk to Kushner and other architects of a US peace initiative unveiled at a Bahrain workshop last week. Kushner at the Manama conference outlined a $50 billion economic revival plan for the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon that is dependent on Israel and the Palestinians reaching a political settlement to their decades-old conflict.

Trump's proposals to settling the thorny political issues remain secret and are to be released later this year. There are doubts among Palestinians as to whether his plan will include the long-standing goal of a "two-state solution" - Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace.

"President Trump is very fond of President Abbas," Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law, said. "He likes him very much personally. And at the right time if they’re willing to engage I believe that they’ll find that they’ll have an opportunity. Whether they will be willing to take that opportunity will be up to them."

Abbas, asked about Kushner's remarks in Ramallah, said he would resume dialogue with the United States should the latter assert its recognition of the two-state solution and the right of Palestinian refugees to return.

"You want a dialogue? If yes, then you need to recognize the two-state solution and that east Jerusalem is occupied and that the international legitimacy is the ground for any dialogue," Abbas said during an event at his Ramallah office in the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

"Send me those words on a piece of paper and the next day I will show up at the White House. Otherwise, no," he said. "Therefore, we are not closing doors with the United States, we are keeping the door narrowly open. If they like it, they are welcome," he added.

In comments likely to raise concerns among Palestinians, Kushner hinted that his peace plan might call on Palestinian refugees to settle where they are and not return to lands now in Israel.

Whether the hundreds of thousands of refugees from the 1948 war of Israel's founding, who with their descendants now number around 5 million, would exercise a right of return has been among the thorniest issues in decades of difficult diplomacy.

Israel has long ruled out any such influx as destabilizing, arguing that refugees should stay where they are or in a future Palestinian state. But prospects of such a state arising in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are themselves in doubt.

Asked by a Lebanese reporter whether the United States hoped Arab countries hosting Palestinian refugees would accept them permanently in exchange for funding, Kushner declined to answer directly, saying the matter would be addressed later. But he suggested a comparison with Jews displaced from Middle Eastern countries in 1948, many of whom Israel took in.

"Look, you have a situation when this whole thing started where you had 800,000 Jewish refugees that came out of all the different Middle Eastern countries and you had 800,000, roughly, Palestinian refugees," Kushner said. "And what's happened to the Israeli - to the Jewish - refugees, is they have been absorbed by different places whereas the Arab world has not absorbed a lot of these refugees over time.

"I think that the people of Lebanon would love to see a resolution to this issue, one that is fair," he said.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump is fond of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture.

White House senior adviser Jared Kushner said on Wednesday that US President Donald Trump is fond of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and willing to engage with him, but Abbas was cool to the gesture. In a conference call with reporters, Kushner said, "Our door is always open" to the Palestinians. The Palestinians have refused to talk to Kushner and other architects of a US peace initiative unveiled at a Bahrain workshop last week. Kushner at the Manama conference outlined a $50 billion economic revival plan for the Palestinian territories, Jordan, Egypt and Lebanon that is dependent on Israel and the Palestinians reaching a political settlement to their decades-old conflict. Trump's proposals to settling the thorny political issues remain secret and are to be released later this year. There are doubts among Palestinians as to whether his plan will include the long-standing goal of a "two-state solution" - Israel and Palestine existing side by side in peace. "President Trump is very fond of President Abbas," Kushner, who is Trump's son-in-law, said. "He likes him very much personally. And at the right time if they’re willing to engage I believe that they’ll find that they’ll have an opportunity. Whether they will be willing to take that opportunity will be up to them." Abbas, asked about Kushner's remarks in Ramallah, said he would resume dialogue with the United States should the latter assert its recognition of the two-state solution and the right of Palestinian refugees to return. "You want a dialogue? If yes, then you need to recognize the two-state solution and that east Jerusalem is occupied and that the international legitimacy is the ground for any dialogue," Abbas said during an event at his Ramallah office in the Israeli-occupied West Bank. "Send me those words on a piece of paper and the next day I will show up at the White House. Otherwise, no," he said. "Therefore, we are not closing doors with the United States, we are keeping the door narrowly open. If they like it, they are welcome," he added. In comments likely to raise concerns among Palestinians, Kushner hinted that his peace plan might call on Palestinian refugees to settle where they are and not return to lands now in Israel. Whether the hundreds of thousands of refugees from the 1948 war of Israel's founding, who with their descendants now number around 5 million, would exercise a right of return has been among the thorniest issues in decades of difficult diplomacy. Israel has long ruled out any such influx as destabilizing, arguing that refugees should stay where they are or in a future Palestinian state. But prospects of such a state arising in the occupied West Bank and the Gaza Strip are themselves in doubt. Asked by a Lebanese reporter whether the United States hoped Arab countries hosting Palestinian refugees would accept them permanently in exchange for funding, Kushner declined to answer directly, saying the matter would be addressed later. But he suggested a comparison with Jews displaced from Middle Eastern countries in 1948, many of whom Israel took in. "Look, you have a situation when this whole thing started where you had 800,000 Jewish refugees that came out of all the different Middle Eastern countries and you had 800,000, roughly, Palestinian refugees," Kushner said. "And what's happened to the Israeli - to the Jewish - refugees, is they have been absorbed by different places whereas the Arab world has not absorbed a lot of these refugees over time. "I think that the people of Lebanon would love to see a resolution to this issue, one that is fair," he said.

Trump 'very fond' of Palestine's Mahmoud Abbas, willing to engage on a peace plan: Jared Kushner

It’s not easy to dissociate from one’s in-laws family, especially not if they are the Trumps but Karlie Kloss is doing it one step at a time. In an interview with the British Vogue, Karlie revealed details about her equation with that part of the family and things she is passionate about.&nbsp;

Talking of her relationship with the Trump family as she got married Joshua Kushner, younger brother of Jared Kushner who is Donald Trump’s son-in-law as he is married to Ivanka Trump said that “it’s been hard”. “But I choose to focus on the values that I share with my husband, and those are the same liberal values that I was raised with and that have guided me throughout my life.”

In an earlier interview,&nbsp;commenting on the Trumps she said, “I’ve chosen to be with the man I love despite the complications,” adding that she and Joshua share a lot of the same values and have “grown together.”&nbsp;

She distances herself from the Trumps, so much so that she doesn't even follow back Ivanka Trump on Instagram.&nbsp;

Karlie has been open about her stance for gun control, support for Hillary Clinton when she was in the race for the US President post and women’s rights. In fact, her husband too took part in the Women’s March after Trump’s inauguration and donated a whopping $50,000 to March For Our Lives after the 2018 school shooting in Parkland, FL.&nbsp;

She identifies herself as a woman who wants to redefine her feminism and even quit from being Victoria's Secret Angel.&nbsp;“I think that was a pivotal moment in me stepping into my power as a feminist, being able to make my own choices and my own narrative, whether through the companies, I choose to work with or through the image I put out to the world,” she said. "I didn't feel [Victoria's Secret] was an image that was truly reflective of who I am and the kind of message I want to send to young women around the world."

It’s not easy to dissociate from one’s in-laws family, especially not if they are the Trumps but Karlie Kloss is doing it one step at a time. In an interview with the British Vogue, Karlie revealed details about her equation with that part of the family and things she is passionate about.

It’s not easy to dissociate from one’s in-laws family, especially not if they are the Trumps but Karlie Kloss is doing it one step at a time. In an interview with the British Vogue, Karlie revealed details about her equation with that part of the family and things she is passionate about. Talking of her relationship with the Trump family as she got married Joshua Kushner, younger brother of Jared Kushner who is Donald Trump’s son-in-law as he is married to Ivanka Trump said that “it’s been hard”. “But I choose to focus on the values that I share with my husband, and those are the same liberal values that I was raised with and that have guided me throughout my life.” In an earlier interview, commenting on the Trumps she said, “I’ve chosen to be with the man I love despite the complications,” adding that she and Joshua share a lot of the same values and have “grown together.” She distances herself from the Trumps, so much so that she doesn't even follow back Ivanka Trump on Instagram. Karlie has been open about her stance for gun control, support for Hillary Clinton when she was in the race for the US President post and women’s rights. In fact, her husband too took part in the Women’s March after Trump’s inauguration and donated a whopping $50,000 to March For Our Lives after the 2018 school shooting in Parkland, FL. She identifies herself as a woman who wants to redefine her feminism and even quit from being Victoria's Secret Angel. “I think that was a pivotal moment in me stepping into my power as a feminist, being able to make my own choices and my own narrative, whether through the companies, I choose to work with or through the image I put out to the world,” she said. "I didn't feel [Victoria's Secret] was an image that was truly reflective of who I am and the kind of message I want to send to young women around the world."

Why Karlie Kloss does not follow sister-in-law Ivanka Trump on Instagram

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